Boldo-falso
baccharis trimera
Also known as: ["Falso boldo","Boldo-falso"]
Overview
A shrub native to South America, known for its aromatic leaves and traditional use in folk medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Baccharis |
| Botanical Name: | Baccharis trimera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
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 gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Protect from frost; water more in heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Fertilize once a year in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
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 or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Baccharis trimera prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; trim roots; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water well.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat waves.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade if possible; mist leaves during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; apply fertilizer in spring; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as Baccharis trimera is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicBaccharis trimera is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant's compounds can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, leading to discomfort and potential digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicBaccharis trimera can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, particularly if consumed in significant amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicBaccharis trimera is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant effects on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Baccharis trimera edible?
A: It is used in traditional medicine but should be consumed with caution due to potential unknown effects.
Q: Does Baccharis trimera attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to grow Baccharis trimera?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, making it suitable for intermediate gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
