Turpentine Bush

Turpentine bush is a compact evergreen shrub native to dry regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its narrow, resinous leaves release a turpentine-like scent when crushed, and clusters of yellow flowers bring a late-season display to sunny, dry gardens. ## Form and season The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum describes a rounded plant about 2–3 feet tall and wide, with bright yellow flowers from late summer into early winter. The [Arizona Municipal Water Users Association profile](https://www.amwua.org/plants/turpentine-bush) gives a similar compact mature form and notes its very low water use and value to pollinators. ## Siting and care Plant in full sun and any soil that drains well. Water new plants while they establish, then reduce irrigation; established plants need little supplemental water in suitable desert conditions. Use it as a low accent, foundation planting, or in a rock garden where its evergreen foliage can contrast with coarser plants. ## Maintenance Pruning is rarely needed. If shaping is necessary, prune in late winter or early spring and avoid cutting after late summer, when flower buds are forming. For additional site and seasonal details, see the [Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum care sheet](https://www.desertmuseum.org/visit/sheets/Erilar.pdf).