Russian Thistle
Salsola iberica, Goosefoot family (Chenopodiaceae)
Flowers: Tiny white flowers are followed by reddish fruit at the center of translucent greenish "petals".
Leaves: Gray-green leaves on new plants are replaced by sharp thorns along the red-striped stems. When dry, these plants become tumbleweeds.
Height: Grows to 4'.
Photographed June 5, in Superstition Mountain area.
Typically found along roadsides and in disturbed ground.