SafePlants

Chamaebatia foliolosa: Mountain Misery

Chamaebatia foliolosa, commonly known as mountain misery, bearclover, bearmat, or Kit-kit-dizze, is an aromatic evergreen shrub native to California. The name "mountain misery" is attributed to the plant's sticky, resinous leaves and its strong, medicinal odor, which some find unpleasant.

Considerations for Pets

• The text notes that all parts of the plant are covered in a sticky resin.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has a sticky texture due to its resinous leaves.
• The plant has a strong medicinal odor.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaebatia foliolosa
• Common Names: Mountain misery, bearclover, bearmat, Sierran mountain misery, Kit-kit-dizze, Southern Mountain Misery
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
• Synonyms: Chamaebatia australis

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to California.
• Commonly found in the Sierra Nevada region, including Yosemite National Park.
• Grows naturally in the partial shade of ponderosa pine forests.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Aromatic evergreen shrub.
• Fernlike leaves that are finely double to triple compound, evergreen, and strongly fragrant. The leaves are typically 1 to 3 inches long.
• Resinous leaves contribute to a generally sticky texture.
• Acts as a groundcover in forests, spreading under trees like Jeffrey pine.

Traditional Uses

• Historically used by Sierra Indians as an herbal treatment for viruses.

Quirky Facts

• The homestead "Kitkiddizze," built by Gary Snyder in the early 1970s, is named after the plant.