Buckbrush(2)

Snowbrush
Ceanothus velutinus

Family: Buckthorn (Rhamnaceae)
AKA: Velvety Buckbrush, Mountain Balm, Tobacco Brush
Photo taken on: July 20, 2006
Location: Upper Upper Loop, GV, CO
Life Zones: Foothills and montane
Habitat: Open woodlands

A shrub growing 1 to 3ft, often prostrate, in dense patches. Leaves are evergreen and finely toothed. Tiny, creamy white flowers grow in dense clusters at the end of the branches.

Flora of North America reference.

Fendler's Buckbrush
Ceanothus fendleri

Family: Buckthorn (Rhamnaceae)
AKA: Buckbrush
Photo taken on: June 18, 2011
Location: Water Canyon Trail, NM
Life Zones: Foothills and montane
Habitat: Dry slopes, open woods

Low-growing in dense patches with spines on the whitish twigs. Tiny clusters of flowers bloom in June.

Compare to Snowbrush above which has olive green twigs and finely toothed leaves.

Leaves are evergreen and have smooth edges and prominent veins.

Both have fragrant flowers and evergreen leaves.

Flora of North America reference.