Tetradymia comosa, commonly known as hairy horsebrush, is a perennial shrub characterized by its whitish woolly appearance, native to the arid deserts and semi-desert shrublands of Southern California and Northern Mexico. It typically thrives in open, dry habitats and is adapted to harsh conditions with poor, rocky soils. Hairy horsebrush reaches a height of 12 inches to over 3.3 feet tall and is notable for its lance-shaped, rigid leaves that are covered in white woolly hairs, which help reduce water loss. The plant produces flower heads enveloped in the same white woolly hairs, with yellow or brownish flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall, depending on local conditions.

In cultivation, hairy horsebrush is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can be used to stabilize soils and provide habitat for native wildlife. It is best grown in full sun and requires well-drained soils. While not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, it can be an interesting addition to rock gardens or desert landscapes. Care should be taken as it can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.CC BY-SA 4.0