SafePlants

Plumed Brickellbush (Brickellia brachyphylla)

Brickellia brachyphylla, commonly known as plumed brickellbush, is a North American native belonging to the sunflower family. This perennial plant is a subshrub or forb/herb, adding a touch of delicate beauty to gardens and natural landscapes alike.

Considerations for Pets

• Brickellbushes possess a chemical defense, although the specific nature of this defense is not detailed.

Considerations for Children

• Brickellbushes possess a chemical defense, although the specific nature of this defense is not detailed.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Brickellia brachyphylla (A. Gray) A. Gray
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
• Genus: Brickellia Elliot
• Synonyms:
  • Brickellia brachyphylla var. brachyphylla (A.Gray) A.Gray
  • Brickellia hinckleyi (implied, as it is mentioned as an alternative name)
• Common Names:
  • Plumed Brickellbush
  • Brach Brickellbush
  • Hinckley's Brickellbush (Brickellia hinckleyi is closely related)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America.
• Observed above Abiquiu Lake, New Mexico (NM).
• Found in Arizona (AZ).
• Specific mentions of national parks with Brach Brickellbush further indicate its presence in protected areas.

Morphology and Growth Habit

• Growth Habit: Subshrub, Forb/herb
• Duration: Perennial
• Description: Brickellia brachyphylla is a somewhat smaller size Brickellbush with bright green lanceolate leaves that are acute at the apex.

Ecological Role

• Brickellbushes serve as a food source for the caterpillars of certain Lepidoptera, including betonyleaf brickellbush (Brickellia betonicifolia) caterpillars and other brickellbush species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant's chemical defense mechanisms play a role in its interactions with other organisms, specifically as it relates to being a food source for caterpillars despite these defenses.

Quirky Facts

• Despite having chemical defenses, plumed brickellbush serves as food for certain caterpillars.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Brickellia brachyphylla.
• Dave's Garden is a community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
• Flora of North America is another resource.
• portail-jardin.com provides information on Brickellia brachyphylla.