Atriplex canescens
Hoary Saltbush
Saltbush, Atriplex canescens, at Weldon, one place where the San Emigdio Blue flies. The bush is a common native, but this butterfly's larvae require the attendance of a certain ant, which in turn is associated with a certain scale insect. That's why you will see Saltbush seemingly everywhere but the butterfly is increasingly rare.
©Dennis Walker