1. A spiny shrub or small tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, with long thin branches and clusters of red flowers at the tips.
Usage: Also called coachwhip or Jacob's staff; Scientific name: Fouquieria splendens

Examples

• The ocotillo blooms with bright red flowers in spring.
• Hikers in the Sonoran Desert often spot ocotillo plants along the trail.
• The ocotillo's long spiny branches can reach heights of 20 feet.
• Native Americans traditionally used ocotillo branches for fencing and construction.
• The ocotillo is well adapted to arid climates with minimal water.
• In drought conditions, the ocotillo sheds its leaves to conserve water.