Family: Fabaceae
Compound: Cou set
Synonyms: Coursetia microphylla, Coursetia seleri var. caeciliae
Geographic Origin: AZ, W Mexico
Characteristics: A large, perennial shrub typically 1.8-3m (6-10ft) tall, but capable of reaching
10m (32ft). Branches are thornless, grey, with a slightly rough texture. Leaves are unipinnate,
with 4-9 pairs of elliptical leaflets. Flowers arranged on a raceme, banners white to pink, wings
and keel white to yellow. Sepals are red. Fruits are long, bean pods narrowing between each
seed. The inflorescence stems, sepals, and fruits are covered in hairlike structures exuding a
sticky substance.
Natural History: Grows between 610-1219m (2,000-4,000ft) on slopes, in canyons, or along
washes. Flowers in the spring.
Cultivation Notes: While not commonly available in nurseries, these plants should not be
overlooked for landscaping purposes. Seeds can be collected in late spring or early summer,
and do not require treatment before germination, though soaking or scarification may increase
germination rate.
For plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: Resin used as a sealant
Citations:
SEINet Arizona - New Mexico Chapter
https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Coursetia+glandulosa&formsubmit=Search+Terms#