Coastal burr ragweed
ambrosia chamissonis
Also known as: ["Coastal burr ragweed","Chamisso's burr ragweed"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the daisy family, native to coastal regions of western North America.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Ambrosia |
| Botanical Name: | Ambrosia chamissonis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or rockeries, prefers sandy or gravelly soils
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight, protect from harsh midday sun, adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent temps, protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, let callus, apply hormone, plant in medium, keep moist, provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, thin crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners, scissors, or shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost, move indoors in winter, ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently in heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions upon ingestion of Ambrosia chamissonis. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ambrosia chamissonis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAmbrosia chamissonis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ambrosia chamissonis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in coastal conditions with partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant due to its size and habitat requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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