Pale Desert-thorn
Lycium pallidum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–72" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NM and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pale desert-thorn is a medium-sized native shrub that produces small tubular flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant has a somewhat open, irregular growth habit and loses its leaves in winter, revealing thorny branches.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pale Desert-thorn takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Thorny branches pose safety concerns
- Irregular growth habit looks unmanicured
- Appears bare and scraggly when dormant
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the long summer blooming period. Birds often nest in the thorny branches and eat the small berries that follow the flowers.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Pale Desert-thorn fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.