SafePlants

Longleaf Brickellbush

This page provides information about the Longleaf Brickellbush, a plant with interesting characteristics and distribution.

Considerations for Pets

• The Longleaf Brickellbush is a shrub.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Brickellia longifolia S. Watson
• Common Names: Longleaf Brickellbush, Long Leaf Brickellbush, Willowleaf Brickell-bush, Spearleaf Brickellbush

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family or Compositae)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms/Variations:
  • Brickellia longifolia var. longifolia
  • Brickellia longifolia var. multiflora

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in the Colorado Plateau and Canyonlands region of the southwestern United States.
• Observed in areas like Arizona, California, and the Mojave Desert region.
• Grows along the dirt road in Beaver Dam Mountains, Cedar Pockets Wash, 0.6 mile N of I -15.

Morphological Characteristics

• Shrubs that grow to a height of 3.3 to 4.9 feet (10 to 15 dm).
• Leaves are alternate, simple, and entire (smooth-edged).
• Perennial subshrub or shrub.

Ecological Role

• Vegetation found along sandbars.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Brickellbushes serve as food for caterpillars.
• Associated with other species like Acacia sp. and Cercocarpus sp. (Mountain mahogany).

Quirky Facts

• The Longleaf Brickellbush is noted to resemble Artemisia dracunculus, or wild tarragon, but larger when not in bloom.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life
• Garden Guides
• United States Department of Agriculture