Anisacanthus thurberi  Desert Honeysuckle
DECIDUOUS SHRUB.  An arching shrub with weak, thin branches that become entangled with each other and with the surrounding vegetation.  Bark shreddy, pale gray to white.  Leaves opposite, long oval, pointed, light green, in clusters or tufts.  Showy flared tubular flowers bloom in April-May and occasionally during summer rains. Flowers are usually bright orange, but may be red, yellow, or bronze.  Frequent in the Empires in sandy washes. Important for flood control and wildlife cover.  Pollinated by hummingbirds.  Attracts many flying insects. Often cultivated in hummingbird gardens.
FAMILY:  Acanthaceae (Acanthus Family)