Tamarix ramosissima
Kern Co.: Tejon Ranch, CA
28 March 2009

Trees and Shrubs of Kern County (Feb 2013)

Tamarix. Problem trees introduced from Southwest Asia.  “Tamarix ssp. thickets” recognized in MCV2 when >3% absolute cover and >50% relative cover compared to other microphyllous trees or shrubs, or >60% relative cover in the shrub or low tree canopy, or >75% relative cover in the shrub canopy, or >60% relative cover in the shrub canopy with minor presence of native species.”

Key to Tamarix in Kern County

1. Leaves completely united around stem, mucronate............................. Tamarix aphylla

1. Leaves clasping stems, gradually narrowed to a pointed apex..................................... 2

2. Flowers 4-merous....................................................................... Tamarix parviflora

2. Flowers 5-merous.................................................................................................... 3

3. Stamens all attached below nectary disk; sepals minutely
dentate............................................................................... Tamarix  ramosissima

3. 1–2 of 5 stamens attached between lobes of nectary disk;
sepals entire.............................................................................. Tamarix chinensis

*Tamarix aphylla (Linnaeus 1753) H. Karsten 1882. Desert-pine. Reported by Twisselmann, widely planted in the valley and on the desert.

*Tamarix chinensis Ledebour 1829. Five-stamen tamarisk. Kern River Park, Edwards Air Force Base (CCH).

*Tamarix parviflora DeCandolle 1828. Small flower tamarisk. Mill Ditch in Bakersfield, Red Rock Canyon , Cache Creek (CCH).

*Tamarix ramosissima Ledebour 1829.  Salt-cedar. Indian Wells Canyon, Edwards AFB, Branch Memorial Park near Lancaster, Castaic Lake, Tule Elk Reserve, Wasco, Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge (CCH).