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Description
Baccharis Conferta, commonly known as the Coyote Brush, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to California, Arizona, and Baja California in Mexico. It is a hardy plant that can survive in a variety of environmental conditions, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Baccharis |
Appearance
The Coyote Brush has a dense and bushy growth habit that can reach up to 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The plant has small, narrow, and leathery leaves that are about 1 inch long and 0.2 inches wide. The leaves are green in color and have a shiny appearance. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in the fall and winter.
Care Guide
The Coyote Brush is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Baccharis Conferta:
- Water: The plant is drought tolerant and can survive on minimal water. However, it is best to water the plant occasionally during prolonged dry spells to keep it healthy.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote its growth.
- Soil: The plant grows well in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Coyote Brush is a hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to some common problems, including:
- Scales: Small, immobile pests that suck the sap from the plant.
- Spider Mites: Tiny pests that feed on the plant’s leaves and cause discoloration.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that affects the plant’s roots and can cause wilting and death.
Habitat
The Coyote Brush is native to California, Arizona, and Baja California in Mexico. The plant grows well in a variety of environmental conditions, including coastal areas, chaparral, and dry slopes. It is an excellent choice for landscaping in arid regions where water is scarce.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Coyote Brush toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets. However, it is best to keep it out of reach of pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Q: Can I prune my Coyote Brush?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant to shape it or control its growth. It is best to prune it in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I water my Coyote Brush?
A: The plant is drought tolerant and can survive on minimal water. However, it is best to water the plant occasionally during prolonged dry spells to keep it healthy.
Q: Does the Coyote Brush attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small white or pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Baccharis Pilularis: A low-growing, evergreen shrub that is native to California and Oregon.
- Baccharis Salicifolia: An evergreen shrub that is native to South America.
- Baccharis Vanessae: A rare, endangered shrub that is native to California.
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Baccharis conferta. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Baccharis-conferta-()
- San Marcos Growers. (n.d.). Baccharis conferta. Retrieved from https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=163
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Coyote brush. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/California_Native_Plants/Shrubs/Baccharis_conferta_-_Coyote_brush/
