There are several examples of plants which, because of their unique products, appear to fulfill an economic need. However, these plants may not do so in a cost-effective manner. With development of improved agronomic practices and plant-processing methods, which lower the cost of production, some plants may eventually realize their full economic potential.
Another factor that may affect a plant's economic potential includes the availability and price of competing products on the world market. This factor is beyond the control of domestic agronomists. Drastic changes in world conditions, such as in times of natural disaster, severe economic recession, or wartime, can have a dramatic impact on the economic feasibility of natural resources. Crops with economic potential may move in and out of economically favorable conditions as world markets change and new markets develop.
Guayule
Guayule (Parthenium argentatum) is a shrubby member of the Compositae family that is native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
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Jojoba
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is a woody, evergreen desert shrub that, despite its misleading species epitaph, chinensis, is native to the southwestern United States.
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Hesperaloe
Hesperaloe (Hesperaloe funifera) is a plant in the agave family that produces long, thin fibers that may be processed into exceptionally light and strong paper.
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