Bryce Canyon High Plateau Plants

A tough, evergreen‑leaved shrub or small tree on rocky slopes and cliffs; its narrow, curled leaves and twisted branches help it resist drought and wind. At Bryce it often occupies steep ledges and forms dense thickets that reduce erosion.

Look for narrow, leathery curled leaves, greyish twiggy branches, and in fruiting season long feathery achenes (seed plumes) that persist and flutter.

Common Confusions

• Manzanita Arctostaphylos spp. Manzanita has smooth red bark and urn‑shaped flowers, whereas mountain mahogany has more rigid curled leaves and long feathery seed plumes.
• Oak Shrub Quercus gambelii Gambel oak has broader lobed leaves and acorns, while mountain mahogany has narrow evergreen leaves and distinctive feathery seed tails.