The Larrea Plant - Over 18,000 Years Old

Scientists believe the Larrea plant is one of the oldest living plants on earth; some living plants are as old as 18,000 years. The desert bush lives in the harsh climate of the Southwestern deserts of the United States as well as in parts of Texas and Arizona. In response to this environment, the plant has developed a wide array of chemicals that help protect it against viruses, bacteria, fungi, insects and rodents.