Coyotebrush (Baccharis pilularis, Prodr. 5: 407 (1836))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: DC.

Bibliography: Prodr. 5: 407 (1836)

Year: 1836

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Baccharis

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. U.S.A. to NW. Mexico

Description

Coyotebrush, also known by its scientific name Baccharis pilularis, is a resilient and versatile plant predominantly found along the western regions of the United States extending down into northwestern Mexico. This hardy shrub, belonging to the Asteraceae family, has been recognized and documented since 1836 as per the Prodr. 5: 407 reference by the author DC.

Adapted to thrive in a range of environmental conditions, Coyotebrush is a common sight in chaparral and coastal sage scrub ecosystems. These robust plants are well-suited for stabilizing soils and providing essential habitat and food sources for various wildlife species, including birds and small mammals. The dense foliage and extensive root systems of Baccharis pilularis serve to combat soil erosion, making them an excellent choice for landscaping in regions prone to such issues.

Coyotebrush is easily identifiable by its small, rounded leaves and clusters of tiny flowers that can range in color from white to yellowish-green. The flowering period typically peaks in late summer to early fall, showcasing an abundant spread that attracts a host of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Given its low maintenance needs and drought tolerance, this plant is often employed in xeriscaping—a landscaping method designed to reduce the need for irrigation.

Moreover, Coyotebrush plays a critical ecological role within its native range. Not only does it contribute to the resilience and biodiversity of its local environment, but it also acts as a pioneer species, often being one of the first plants to colonize disturbed or degraded areas. This capacity helps pave the way for subsequent plant species, fostering a more diverse and stable ecosystem over time.

In conclusion, Baccharis pilularis, or Coyotebrush, is much more than just an attractive shrub; it is a vital component of the western U.S. and northwest Mexican landscapes. Its functional qualities, ranging from erosion control to providing wildlife habitat, coupled with its adaptability and ease of care, underscore its importance in both natural and cultivated settings.

Common Names

Eng: chaparral-broom, coyotebrush, dwarf chaparral false willow, dwarf chapparal broom
En: Coyotebrush, Chaparral-broom, Dwarf chaparral false willow, Chaparral Broom, Coyote Brush, Wine Bush, Dwarf chapparal broom

Synonyms

• Baccharis pilularis var. typica (C.B.Wolf)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oregon (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Oct 12, 2012 by EOL − James Maughn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 8, 2012 by EOL − Allison Oseth (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 5, 2010 by EOL − Franco Folini (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 11, 2010 by EOL − Franco Folini (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 29, 2021 by Jessica Sims (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Dec 23, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 31, 2011 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 23, 2019 by Darren Darren (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 20, 2022 by Cristian Orellana (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 26, 2019 by sheleen sheleen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 20, 2022 by Cristian Orellana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 25, 2020 by Raj Singh (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 2, 2014 by EOL − Lynn Watson, Santa Barbara (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 17, 2012 by EOL − Franco Folini (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 31, 2011 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Dec 7, 2020 by Matt Young (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 25, 2022 by Liz Pucket (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Feb 5, 2014 by EOL − c michael hogan (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 18, 2015 by EOL − th92105 (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 20, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 7, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 18, 2021 by fayaz jamali (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3129497)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:183599-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Baccharis pilularis DC.)

Specifications

Growth form: Thicket Forming

Growth habit: Subshrub, Shrub

Growth rate: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.2

Ph minimum: 5.5