How to Grow Baccharis
Baccharis
Baccharis pilularis
shrubBaccharis is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to California known for its fine-textured foliage and tolerance of drought and poor soils. It forms dense mounding growth and is popular as a groundcover, erosion control plant, and for fire-resistant landscaping. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers followed by silky seed heads.
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Example Baccharis timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Baccharis
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Baccharis
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Baccharis dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 8-11, with best performance in coastal California and warm, dry climates
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Get my Baccharis timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 3-6 monthsYoung transplants with minimal growth; developing root system
Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings; protect from strong winds; mulch around base to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature
Vegetative Growth
6 months to 1 yearRapid shoot development with increasing foliage density; plant fills out into mounding shape
Continue regular watering during dry periods; minimal pruning needed, but can prune to shape; avoid over-fertilizing as it promotes weak, leggy growth
Flowering
Late summer to fall (August-October)Small cream to white flowers appear in axils of branches; more prominent in female plants; followed by silky, feathery seed heads
No special care needed; maintain regular watering schedule; some plants are male (non-fruiting) and produce no seeds, making them tidier landscape choices
Maturity
2+ years and onwardFully established, dense groundcover or shrub form; reaches typical 12-18 inches tall and 3-4 feet wide; evergreen foliage maintained year-round
Transition to drought watering; prune only for shape or to remove dead branches; extremely low maintenance; no fertilizer needed; mulch can be reduced
Seasonal Dormancy
Winter months (December-February)During cool winters, foliage may take on reddish or bronze tones; growth slows significantly in cold climates
Reduce watering frequency; avoid pruning in late fall/early winter to prevent frost damage; allow natural color changes; protect from frost in zone 8
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use miticide if severe; ensure adequate moisture during hot periods
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Monitor undersides of leaves; use insecticidal soap; release natural parasites like Encarsia formosa
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Improve air circulation by pruning; apply sulfur dust or neem oil; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Erosion Control and Slope Stabilization
HouseholdBaccharis's dense root system and spreading habit make it excellent for stabilizing slopes, preventing erosion, and holding soil on hillsides. It is widely used in restoration projects throughout California coastal regions and chaparral ecosystems. [source]
Fire-Resistant Landscaping
HouseholdThe succulent foliage of Baccharis has relatively low flammability compared to many native shrubs, making it valuable in fire-prone regions. It is recommended for defensible space plantings around homes in wildland-urban interface areas. [source]
Native Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeBaccharis provides shelter and nesting cover for native birds, small mammals, and beneficial insects. The silky seed heads are attractive to goldfinches and other seed-eating birds. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Groundcover
HouseholdBaccharis creates a dense, attractive groundcover requiring minimal water once established, making it ideal for xeriscape gardens and water-conservation landscaping in arid and semi-arid climates. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalNative American tribes traditionally used Baccharis species for various medicinal purposes, including treatments for skin conditions and inflammation. The plant contains phenolic compounds with potential antimicrobial properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Baccharis is not harvested in the traditional sense; however, seed heads can be collected in fall for propagation by seed. Cuttings can be taken in spring or early summer for vegetative propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Baccharis pilularis is also called 'coyote brush' because it thrives in areas where coyotes roam and provides excellent cover for them and other wildlife.
- 🌱 The plant is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female; female plants produce the silky, feathery seed heads (which some gardeners find messy), while male plants are tidier and are often selected for landscaping.
- 🌱 Baccharis is one of the few native California shrubs that is reliably fire-resistant enough to be recommended in defensible space zones immediately adjacent to homes in high-risk fire areas.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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