Douglas Baccharis
baccharis douglasii
Also known as: []
Overview
A shrub native to western North America, known for its small, white flowers and drought tolerance.
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 douglasii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or open areas with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
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 plants gradually if moving from shade to full sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot climates (65–95°F or 18–35°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Protect from frost; water adequately in heat; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring if growth is poor
Fertilize sparingly; apply in spring only; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
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 (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and partially shaded environment.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss blend).
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); avoid excessive size increase.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Baccharis douglasii prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency 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 stop to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; wilting or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in frosty conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter (e.g., mulch, row covers). Plant in a sheltered location to minimize cold exposure.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if water and light are not managed.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide partial afternoon shade if possible; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid frequent feeding; Baccharis douglasii is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBaccharis douglasii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBaccharis douglasii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBaccharis douglasii is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has no documented physiological impact when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Baccharis douglasii toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Baccharis douglasii be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Baccharis douglasii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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