SafePlants

Southern Mountain Misery: Aromatic Shrub of the California Chaparral

Chamaebatia australis, commonly known as southern mountain misery or southern bearclover, is an aromatic evergreen shrub native to California and Mexico. Its distinctive fragrance and groundcover growth habit make it a notable plant in its native habitat.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has a generally sticky texture due to its resinous leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has a generally sticky texture due to its resinous leaves.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Chamaebatia australis (Brandeg.) Abrams
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Chamaebatia foliolosa var. australis Brandegee

Common Names

• Southern Mountain Misery
• Southern Bearclover
• Mountain Misery (sometimes used more broadly, but specifically refers to Chamaebatia foliolosa as well)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to southern California and Mexico.
• Often found as a groundcover in forests, particularly under Jeffrey pine.
• Grows in mountainous habitats of Southern California.
• Has a limited distribution (CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants list 4.2)

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Evergreen shrub.
• Aromatic foliage with resinous dots that smell similar to witch hazel.
• Grows as a spreading groundcover.
• Reaches approximately 7 feet in height and 5 feet in width.

Quirky Facts

• The plant's resinous leaves contribute to its common name "mountain misery" due to their sticky texture and potentially unpleasant scent to some.
• The Native American word for this plant is possibly "kit-kit-dizze".
• Southern Mountain Misery has a more appealing name: Southern Bearclover.

Additional Notes

• The text suggests this species is often found in the leaf litter.