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Shrubbery
WINTERFAT Krascheninnikovia lanata
WINTERFAT Krascheninnikovia lanata The common name refers to this plant's usage as an important winter forage plant for wildlife and livestock. This plant is also called white sage or winter sage. It is a compact perennial shrub that grows to about three feet. The base of the shrub has yellowish, fibrous wood with flaky bark. This base is about four inches tall. From this base long stems grow each year. The stems, branches and leaves are covered with dense long hairs that give the plant a silvery appearance. Small spikes of male and female flowers are arranged separately but on the same plant. Generally, there are two to four male flowers in small clusters, while there are many female flowers along a short stem. Even the fruits have long hairs. It blooms from mid-spring to summer. Fruits may remain on the plant all winter. The protein content of Winterfat is close to alfalfa, making this a valuable forage plant. Navajos parboiled the leaves and ate them to relieve the expectoration of blood. Winterfat and rabbitbrush were thrown onto hot stones in sweat lodges for aroma. Differences in the salt content of the soil show up in the leaves of winterfat. The more salty the soil, the shorter, thicker and hairier are the leaves.
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