Gutierrezia sarothrae aka Broom Snakeweed

Gutierrezia sarothrae is a small, deciduous shrub in the daisy family. Common names include broomweed, broom snakeweed, and rabbit weed. Its native range spans western and central Canada to northern Mexico. It grows across much of the western and central United States. Wild plants grow on plains, in valleys, and on foothills. They also occupy open ground and disturbed sites with dry soil.

Plants reach about 3.3 feet [1 metre] in height. They form woody subshrubs and have a strong scent. Winter cold may kill the top growth back to the base. A deep taproot makes them sensitive to root damage. Place young plants in their final site early. Deep pots give the roots room while plants are young. The supplied sources give no detailed account of leaf shape or bark.

Flowers appear from August to October, bringing late-season bloom to beds. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen between the flowers. The sources do not describe the fruit or seed heads. Garden uses include cultivated beds and plantings grown for scent. The plant also has a history of practical uses. People have bound its twigs into brooms and used dried twigs to start fires. The tops can yield a yellow dye.

Grow this shrub in full sun with deep soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, and clay where drainage suits its roots. It grows in mildly acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Wild plants often occur on lime-rich ground. Soil may be dry or moist, but shade does not suit it. PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10 and cold tolerance near 14–23°F [−10 to −5°C]. Seeds can be sown in spring under glass. Half-ripe cuttings offer another way to raise plants in summer.

PFAF flags weed potential, so its spread deserves attention in gardens. Livestock tend to avoid it, and abundance can mark overgrazed land. Large amounts can poison grazing animals; saponins may play a part. No edible uses are recorded. Several Indigenous North American peoples used it in traditional medicine. These records do not establish safe home use. Reported uses include root preparations for stomach and urinary complaints. The evidence supplied names no specific pests or diseases.