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Colorado River Plants

Plants that grow on and near the banks of rivers such as the Colorado form specific ecosystems known as "riparian areas." Today, the Colorado River riparian areas are a mixture of native and non-native species, some of which have become invasive and even destructive to the natural environment, replacing species that provide food and habitat for wildlife.

Coyote Willow
- Coyote Willow is a shrub that is found from Mexico to Alaska and is commonly found along the banks of the Colorado River, according to the National Park Service. These willows are usually found near water, rooted in gravel or sand. The roots of a Coyote Willow grow fast when constantly in contact with the water table. The shrub reaches 10 feet in height and produces long shoots on which narrow, deciduous leaves grow. Coyote Willow spreads easily through root rhizomes and can be started from seed. Deer, sheep, cattle and beaver all find this plant appetizing. Cows will leave the willow in the summer and then eat the long shoots during the winter months. A tea made from the bark of a Coyote Willow has an effect similar to aspirin, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
Exotic Tamarisk
- This shrub is not native to the Colorado River, but was introduced there from southern Eurasia. Since the beginning of the 21st century, this small deciduous tree has slowly become a dominant riparian species along the banks of the Colorado. The National Park Service closely monitors the invasive species displacement of native plants. Often the tree will grow in previously open areas and take over stands of plants that provide food for wildlife or lower water tables where they grow. Invasive groves of Tamarisk put native willow communities, like the Coyote Willow, at risk. According to Dr. Larry E. Stevens, an ecologist consulting with Northern Arizona University, the Exotic Tamarisk has already replaced thousands of acres of riparian forests.
Western Honey Mesquite
- The Western Honey Mesquite tree is found in low elevations where it is dry and warm. This makes the Colorado river riparian area a perfect habitat for this Southwestern tree. According to the University of Nevada, the honey produce by bees who nest in this tree is very desirable among beekeepers. Wild mesquites are found along the banks of the Colorado but can be scarce. This tree is a popular species to plant for shade in yards and gardens.
Arrowweed
- Arrowweed is a shrub that grows 7 feet to 9 feet tall and is a member of the sunflower family. This warm-weather plant is native to California and commonly found among streamside communities. It thrives in gravely soil at elevations below 2000 feet and forms dense thickets. Purple disk flowers bloom during the summer. The name of this shrub comes from the fact that Native Americans once used the long, straight shafts of Arrowweed to create arrows and spears, according to Bird and Hike.

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