Baccharis Halimifolia

Description

Baccharis Halimifolia, commonly known as eastern baccharis or groundsel bush, is a shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to the eastern coastal regions of North America, this plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Baccharis Halimifolia blooms in late summer and early fall, producing tiny white or yellow flowers that are grouped in clusters. The plant is dioecious, which means that it has separate male and female plants.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Baccharis Halimifolia has a unique appearance, with its long, slender leaves that are green on top and white on the bottom. The leaves are about 2-4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit, with a woody stem that can be up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers are small and white or yellow, and they appear in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small achene that is dispersed by the wind.

Care Guide

To take care of Baccharis Halimifolia, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, and sunlight. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. Baccharis Halimifolia is hardy in zones 7-10, but it can also grow in other zones with proper care.Water: Baccharis Halimifolia needs regular watering, especially during the first few months after planting. Once the plant is established, you can reduce watering to once a week or whenever the soil feels dry.Fertilization: You can fertilize Baccharis Halimifolia in the spring and fall using a balanced fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant.Soil: Baccharis Halimifolia can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you can amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Baccharis Halimifolia prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Baccharis Halimifolia is hardy in zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Baccharis Halimifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues.Pests: Baccharis Halimifolia can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.Diseases: Baccharis Halimifolia can be affected by powdery mildew and leaf spot. You can control these diseases by removing affected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.

Habitat

Baccharis Halimifolia is native to the eastern coastal regions of North America, from Massachusetts to Florida. It grows in a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, swamps, and sandy areas. Baccharis Halimifolia is an important plant for wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and insects.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Baccharis Halimifolia toxic to humans?

A: Baccharis Halimifolia is not toxic to humans, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.

Q: Can Baccharis Halimifolia be grown indoors?

A: Baccharis Halimifolia is a hardy outdoor plant that is not recommended for indoor growing.

Q: How often should I prune Baccharis Halimifolia?

A: Baccharis Halimifolia does not require regular pruning, but you can prune it in the spring to maintain its shape and size.

Q: Can Baccharis Halimifolia tolerate saltwater?

A: Baccharis Halimifolia is tolerant of saltwater and can grow in salt marshes and other coastal habitats.

Related Plants

• Baccharis pilularis
• Baccharis salicifolia
• Baccharis halimifolia var. halimifolia
• Baccharis halimifolia var. pendula

References

• “Baccharis halimifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c460.
• “Baccharis halimifolia.” NC State Extension. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/baccharis-halimifolia/.
• “Baccharis halimifolia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BAHA2.