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Baccharis malibuensis - Malibu Baccharis

Baccharis malibuensis, commonly known as Malibu Baccharis, is a rare shrub species belonging to the Asteraceae (aster) family.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Baccharis is a genus of shrubs, which may imply woody stems or branches.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Baccharis malibuensis R.M. Beauchamp & J. Henrickson
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
• Synonyms: Baccharis malibuensis Beauchamp & Henderson, Baccharis malibuensis R.M. Beauch.
• Element Code: PDAST0W0W0

Distribution and Habitat

• Malibu Baccharis is endemic to southern California, specifically Los Angeles County and the Malibu Creek drainage.
• It's a rare native shrub, found in chaparral, coastal scrub, and cismontane woodlands.

Morphological Characteristics

• Malibu Baccharis is a deciduous shrub.
• It typically grows to a height of 40-130 cm, but can occasionally reach up to 210 cm.
• It has a branched growth habit, developing into a round-shaped shrub.
• The plant assumes a white coloring in the summer.
• Baccharis pilularis, another species in the same genus, is dioecious (having separate male and female plants). Baccharis malibuensis has male and female forms.

Ecological Role and Conservation Status

• Malibu Baccharis is a rare and threatened species, primarily due to urbanization.
• It is known from only a few locations.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Malibu Baccharis can be found with other scrub species like Baccharis pilularis and Encelia.

Further Resources

• CNPS (California Native Plant Society)
• CDFG (California Department of Fish and Game)
• USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service)
• CalPhotos
• PLANT PROFILE (*)