Coyote Brush
baccharis pilularis
Also known as: ["Coyote Bush","Koyote Brush"]
Overview
A native shrub of western North America, known for its dense, evergreen foliage and adaptability to various soil types.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Baccharis |
| Botanical Name: | Baccharis pilularis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or xeriscaped areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can lead to root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be cut back by one-third to half for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; in hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent stress; prefers outdoor placement in well-lit areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks once established, more frequent during establishment phase
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering once established.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Adaptable pH range (6.0–7.5); prefers slightly acidic to neutral.
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–10; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 100°F; prefers cool winters and warm summers.
Protect from extreme cold in marginal zones; water deeply before heatwaves; avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually in early spring if needed
Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only if growth is poor; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in the garden can take an additional 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to maintain form; can be sheared for a formal look.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth; best done after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers; repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and check root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and rainfall.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure water drains well to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during the first growing season to establish roots; thereafter, reduce to monthly or only during prolonged drought in established plants.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in poorly drained soil during freeze.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter to insulate roots; avoid overwatering before freezes; in zones below 5, consider protective covering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during extreme heat; may go dormant if water stressed.
Solution: Provide supplemental water during droughts; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Assess growth before fertilizing; use a balanced fertilizer; apply sparingly; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Generally does not require fertilization; if needed, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring at half strength.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Baccharis pilularis. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Baccharis pilularis by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBaccharis pilularis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Baccharis pilularis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Coyote Brush require much water?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks once establi |
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