Desert Caper Tree
Vomit Bush

Atamisquea emarginata

 
Atamisquea emarginata Pen & Ink Illustration © by Michael J. Plagens

Sketched from live specimen observed at Quitobaquito Springs, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

RANGE: In the USA, this small to medium sized trees is found only at Organ Pipe National Monument in Arizona. It also ranges south into Mexico.

FLOWER: Two tough green sepals. Four pale, strap-shaped petals.

FRUIT: A small green capsule.

LEAVES: Alternate leaves are tough and leathery with the upper surface shiny green and the lower surface scurfy tan. There is a notch at the leaf tip and the edges are smooth and partially rolled under.

TREE: Small tree with spreading branches. Twigs are ashy gray.

UNARMED

Atamisquea emarginata photo © by Michael J. Plagens

Capparaceae -- Caper Family

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Sonoran Desert Field Guide
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Copyright Michael J. Plagens, page created 25 Nov. 2007,
updated 25 Oct. 2015