Coyote brush - Baccharis pilularis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Coyote brush

Also known as: Coyote bush, Chaparral broom, Dwarf baccharis

Coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis) is a member of the daisy family that’s indigenous to western North America. Another name for it is chaparral broom. Its leaves have a chemical in them that makes them fire retardant.

Scientific classification

Species

Coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late fall, Winter, Early spring

Harvest Time

3 m

Plant Height

1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Coyote brush

Attributes of Coyote brush

Growth Rate

In Spring and Summer, coyote brush exhibits a moderate growth rate, transitioning into robust development, height increase, foliation, and flower production. This pliable growth speed allows for an adaptive response to various environmental pressures, supporting the necessary structural adjustments in these formative seasons.

Distribution of Coyote brush

Distribution Map

Coyote brush, a shrub native to western parts of North America, has a distribution that extends across the continent's coastal and adjacent inland areas. It is also cultivated outside its native range, indicating a spread due to its ornamental or habitat restoration qualities, although specific non-native regions are not detailed.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal sand dunes and hills

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Coyote brush forms mats and grows in clusters, features which are used to full advantage when it is planted as groundcover on slopes, banks, and informal hedges. This species is also valued ornamentally in gardens because it is deer resistant and produces bright green foliage. Coyote brush attracts pollinators like bees, wasps, and butterflies.

Name Story

Coyote brush: It's been suggested that the reason it is called coyote brush is because of its trickiness like a coyote. It is adaptable like the coyote and it takes different growing forms in different habitats.

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Toxicity

Coyote brush is moderately toxic to both cats and dogs. Cats and dogs may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if any part of the plant is ingested. Immediate veterinary attention is essential to ensure proper care. Owners should prevent pets from chewing or ingesting any portion of coyote brush to avoid potential poisoning.

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Care Guide for Coyote brush

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Coyote brush flourishes in coastal bluffs and dry slopes, preferring dry, drought-tolerant conditions. Water every 1-2 weeks to avoid over-saturation. Typically an outdoor plant, it thrives in coastal climates with wet winters and dry summers, maximizing growth and water efficiency.

Fertilize: For coyote brush, use a balanced fertilizer annually in spring to enhance growth. In poor soils, select high nitrogen options. Avoid over-fertilization by following package guidelines. Adjust fertilizer application in fall, ensuring even distribution and thorough watering for optimal absorption. Suitable for all gardening levels.

Pruning: Coyote brush thrives with winter pruning, where up to one-third of growth is removed to shape the plant and promote foliage. Eliminating dead or diseased stems prevents pests. Dormant pruning minimizes stress and boosts spring vigor, while rejuvenation pruning every few years benefits older specimens.

Propagation: To propagate coyote brush, use cuttings in spring or summer for easy success. Look for new shoots and root growth as indicators. Maintain proper moisture for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot coyote brush every 2-3 years in early spring, using a slightly larger container with good drainage. Water sparingly after repotting and position in full sun to partial shade for optimal recovery and growth.

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