Current Phoenix Weather:
advertisement
13 May 2024
Ever wondered about that distinctive scent that fills the air just before it rains in Arizona? It’s not just a prelude to the typical brown wall of dirt on the horizon. No, it’s something far more evocative—it’s the unmistakable fragrance of rain in the desert, a scent that many of us associate with home.
This magical aroma owes its existence to the larrea tridentata, commonly known as the creosote plant, which thrives exclusively in the arid Southwest regions of the United States and Mexico, encompassing deserts like the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan. When rain finally graces these parched lands, the oils of the creosote plant become activated, infusing the air with that signature eau de desert.
The creosote bush is truly remarkable in its own right. Its resinous leaves release aromatic oils when raindrops touch them, creating that enchanting scent that permeates the desert air. However, it’s essential to note that the creosote bush should not be confused with creosote oil, a coal-tar petroleum product used for preserving wood crates, palates, and telephone poles. The two substances have vastly different scents—one reminiscent of nostalgic hikes at South Mountain, the other of industrial shipyards.
Interestingly, the creosote bush goes by various names, including greasewood, a nod to the resinous nature of its leaves. This name has even been immortalized in the towns of Greasewood and Greasewood Springs in northern Arizona, as well as the iconic Greasewood Flats restaurant in Scottsdale. Additionally, some refer to it as chaparral, though it’s essential to recognize that these are regional names that may also apply to other plants.
For centuries, indigenous peoples have recognized the medicinal properties of the creosote bush, incorporating it into poultices, teas, and other remedies. Despite its therapeutic benefits, excessive consumption of creosote tea can strain the liver and kidneys, and its taste is notoriously bitter—perhaps even rivaling some of the less palatable herbal teas found in health food stores.
Remarkably, creosote bushes boast extraordinary longevity, with some specimens living for thousands of years. These resilient plants grow from a central “root crown,” which sprouts new limbs, leaves, and flowers over time. Despite the eventual demise of these limbs, the root crown continues to produce new growth, resulting in a continuous cycle of renewal. One particularly famous specimen, known as “King Clone,” located in California’s Lucerne Valley, is estimated to be a staggering 12,000 years old—a testament to the enduring vitality of the creosote bush.
So, the next time you catch a whiff of that enchanting desert scent as the rain approaches, take a moment to appreciate the ancient legacy of the creosote bush and the timeless beauty of the desert landscape.
advertisement
In a city where the culinary scene is growing rapidly, one restaurant stands out for its authentic, innovative, and flavorful take on Thai cuisine — and it’s earned national recognition. Lom Wong, a Thai restaurant in Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, has become a popular hotspot for locals and food critics alike. Chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin, co-owner of Lom Wong, has made it to the finalist round for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards, among the highest honors in the culinary world. advertisement The Vision Behind Lom Wong Opened in 2022, Lom Wong is more than just a place to grab a
In our day-to-day hustle, it’s easy to overlook the beauty surrounding us while on the road. Arizona’s cities are surrounded by incredible landscapes such as the Sonoran Desert, the Sedona monuments, and Flagstaff’s trees and mountains. Still, it’s sometimes too easy to forget the daily beauty we have the opportunity to enjoy. It’s beneficial to remember that Arizona’s commutes can be far more than just a means of getting from point A to point B while trying to avoid traffic. advertisement Top Scenic Commutes in Arizona According to a recent survey by Quantrell Volvo, which surveyed over 3,000 commuters, several
Are you looking for a new breakfast restaurant in the Valley? Fortunately for you, the local breakfast scene is as diverse as the state. Let’s explore some of the best breakfast destinations according to locals. advertisement 1. Butterfield Pancake House (Scottsdale) Locals agree that Butterfield Pancake House is one of the top breakfast spots in the Valley. Known for its mouth-watering pancakes and classic breakfast fare, this Scottsdale establishment is a beloved local gem. True to its name, the pancakes are the star! Fluffy, warm, and served with various toppings make them unique and irresistible. 2. Over Easy Over Easy
When you think about Arizona, there is no denying you’ll also think about cactus. Not only is it the state flower of the blossom of a Saguaro Cactus, but it’s also illegal to destroy or vandalize a Saguaro Cactus in Arizona. But beyond cactus ‘s resilience in the harsh desert landscape, did you know this spiny plant is also packed with health benefits? From cactus fruit to cactus pads (called nopales), the versatile cactus has been a staple in indigenous diets for thousands of years. It is now gaining attention for its impressive nutritional properties. advertisement What Is Cactus Fruit?
advertisement
Cookie | Duration | Description |
---|---|---|
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |