This member of the Borage Family is well adapted to the dry habitats. The plants are commonly found in clumps, but they are generally widely scattered rather than in dense growths as in the case of the Bluebells or Mertensias that belong to the same Family. Its showy trumpetlike yellow flowers attract many insects as they bloom during April and May. The seeds are hard, white and shiny, hence the name Lithospermum, meaning stone seed.
Narrowleaf Puccoon
80. DESERT SAGEMint Family
Salvia carnosa
Although looking very much like a clump of Sagebrush, this small shrub is a member of the Mint Family and not closely related to the Common Sagebrush. The clusters of bright purple flowers, as they come on in May or June, certainly add brilliant adornment to this sage-green plant. It is fairly common in the Sonoran Zones and well scattered throughout much of the Southwest. This is the plant referred to in the storied Land of the Purple Sage. One of the best places to look for this plant is along the Emerald Pool Trail in Zion National Park.
Desert Sage
81. MULLEINFigwort Family
Verbascum thapsus
This rather unusual-appearing plant is not a native but rather an introduced species from Europe that has spread over most of Western America. It is fairly common along the roads and trails.
The Hopi Indians are said to dry and smoke the leaves, and this is thought to cure people who are mentally unbalanced.