Spiny Hopsage
Grayia spinosa (Atriplex grayii)

Family: Amaranth (Amaranthaceae)
AKA: Gray's Saltbush, Spiny Sage
Photo taken on: October 18, 2012
Location: Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, NM
Life Zones: Plains to foothills
Habitat: Dry, sandy, rocky areas

Grows as a rounded brambly shrub to 3 ft across and high with spiny, grayish branches. Leaves are slightly fleshy and oval-shaped.

What appears to be clusters of pink flowers are the bracts of the female flower; the actual flowers are tiny.

Related to and similar to Fourwing Saltbush.

Photo taken on: October 18, 2012
Location: Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, NM

Flora of North America reference.