Tumbleweeds are a topic of conversation. While many are about knee-high, some can grow to as large as six feet. The size is determined by the availability of water as they do not break free until the stalk has become completely decimated.
The part played by Sam Shepard was originally played by Timothy Scott in the original Lonesome Dove (1989) mini-series.
In the original Lonesome Dove (1989) mini-series, James Garner was offered the part of Woodrow or Gus, but turned them both down.