SafePlants

Eastern Baccharis (Baccharis halimifolia)

Baccharis halimifolia, commonly known as Eastern Baccharis, is a shrub native to North America. It belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae).

Common Names

• Eastern Baccharis
• Groundsel Tree
• Sea-myrtle
• Salt Bush
• Consumption-weed
• Groundsel Bush
• Salt Marsh-elder
• Salt Bush
• Florida Groundsel
• Sea Island Myrtle
• Groundsel Baccharis
• Saltmyrtle
• Seamyrtle
• Silverling
• Baccharis
• Snow Bush
• White Cloud Tree
• Aster Tree

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Baccharis halimifolia L.
• Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae)
• Synonym: Baccharis cuneifolia Moench
• Taxonomic Rank: Species; Variety: Baccharis halimifolia var. halimifolia L.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Nova Scotia, the eastern and southern United States.
• Found in saltmarshes of southern New England, reaching the northern edge of its range there.
• Grows especially in moist areas.

Ecological Role

• Can be an invader in bottomland hardwood plantations, particularly in the southeastern United States.
• Considered a problem weed in rangelands, pastures, and parks.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3.5 meters (11 feet) in height and width.
• Grows at a medium rate.
• Much-branched shrub or small tree, typically 1 to 4 meters tall.
• Leaves are alternate, evergreen, simple, elliptic to ovate, 3 to 7 cm long.
• Showy when it flowers in October.
• Broadleaf shrub with loose, irregular to oval mounding form, upright branching, fine texture, and medium to open canopy.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flowers are popular with insects in the fall.
• Attracts migrant warblers that prey on insects.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database: National Plant Data Center
• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.