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beebrush
Scientific Name: Aloysia
Family: Verbenaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Aloysia gratissima: The Bee-Brush
Also known as Whitebrush, this plant is a favorite among beekeepers and gardeners alike. Let's explore what makes it so special.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Aloysia gratissima (Gillies & Hook.) Troncoso
- Common Names: Whitebrush, Bee-brush, White-brush, Common bee-brush, Beebrush, Privet Lippia, Jazminillo, Hierba de la Princesa, Chaparro Blanco
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Verbenaceae (Vervain family)
- Genus: Aloysia
- Synonyms: The text also mentions A. citrodora, Lippia citrodora, L. triphylla, and Verbena triphylla in relation to Lemon Verbena/Lemon Beebrush (Aloysia citrodora), which is related but distinct from Aloysia gratissima.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions the plant being an aromatic shrub and having lemon-scented leaves (Lemon Verbena/Lemon Beebrush). While generally not considered highly toxic, strong scents can sometimes be irritating to sensitive animals.
Description and Growth Habits
- Aloysia gratissima is described as a slender, densely-branched shrub.
- Aloysia macrostachya (Rio Grande Beebrush) is mentioned as an evergreen shrub.
Distribution and Habitat
- The genus Aloysia is native to the Americas.
- It is associated with desert regions such as Arizona and Sonora.
Ecological Role
- The plant is valuable for attracting bees.
- It is noted as a great plant for planning a wildscape.
Quirky Facts
- Some people drink warm beebrush tea for potential weight loss and to calm the stomach (likely referring to Lemon Verbena/Lemon Beebrush).