Baccharis - Groundsel Bush

(Bac'charis)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of deciduous and evergreen small trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants from North and South America. B. patagonica is a tender, medium-sized, evergreen shrub that has red shoots and small, glossy, dark green leaves. In late spring, tiny, yellowish-white flower heads are produced singly in the upper leaf axils. This quick-growing shrub can be grown near the sea. B. halimifolia (Groundsel Bush) is a hardy native of the eastern U.S. and is found growing near the sea and in salt-marshes.

POTTING: Plant Baccharis in the spring or early fall in regular, well-drained soil. They may be pruned, after they've flowered, just enough to keep them shapely.

PROPAGATION: Cuttings of young shoots may be inserted in a frame in late summer. Seeds may also be sown when they are ripe.

VARIETIES: B. halimifolia; B. pilularis; B. patagonica.

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