SafePlants

Nevin's Brickellbush (Brickellia nevinii)

Nevin's Brickellbush, scientifically known as Brickellia nevinii, is a native shrub found in specific regions of the United States. This page provides information about its classification, distribution, characteristics, and ecological role.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that brickellbushes have chemical defenses. While not explicitly stating toxicity, it's worth researching potential effects if ingested by pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Brickellia nevinii A. Gray
• Common Names: Nevin's Brickellbush, Nevin's Brickellia, California Brickellbush, Brickell Bush, Spearleaf brickellbush
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
• Kingdom: Plantae (plants)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: The provided text may contain synonyms, but it is difficult to definitively identify them without further botanical expertise.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to southern California, United States.
• Regularly occurring and currently present in its native range.

Morphological Characteristics

• A small perennial shrub, typically 1 to 2 feet tall. Some sources mention it growing to 30-80 cm tall (approximately 1 to 2.6 feet).
• Erect, branching stems covered with dense white wool.
• Classified as a subshrub or shrub.
• Hemispheric growth habit with many stems at the base and highly branched.

Ecological Role

• Brickellbushes, despite their chemical defenses, serve as food for caterpillars of certain Lepidoptera species.

Further Information

• Calscape: Provides information including the author and date.
• Discover Life: Offers information about biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.
• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Calflora: Contains species information.