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Groundsel bush

Baccharis halimifolia · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around groundsel bush and prepare for winter.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Common name
Groundsel tree
Family
Asteraceae
Form
Shrub
Adult size
2 to 4 m in height
Foliage
Semi-evergreen to deciduous depending on climate
Flowering
August to November
Hardiness
Down to approximately -10 °C
Origin
East coast of North America

Care

Light exposure

Place Baccharis halimifolia in full sun for vigorous growth and generous flowering. It also tolerates partial shade, but will develop a more open habit. Avoid overly shaded locations, which slow down fruiting.

Watering

Once established, this shrub is very drought-tolerant and requires little water. Water moderately at planting time, then limit watering to prolonged hot periods. Groundsel tree prefers dry to fresh soil rather than waterlogged conditions.

Soil

Baccharis adapts to a wide variety of soils: ordinary, poor, sandy, or even chalky. It handles well-draining terrain and isn't afraid of soil dryness. Improve very compacted soil with a light addition of compost at planting time.

Pruning and maintenance

Prune this shrub in late winter or early spring to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Remove poorly oriented or overly dense shoots. Light pruning every 2 to 3 years is sufficient; the shrub regenerates well and tolerates heavy pruning.

Fertilizing

Groundsel tree is only hungry if the soil is very depleted. A light application in spring is generally sufficient. Favor balanced fertilizer or a light layer of compost rather than over-feeding, which would encourage weak growth.

Health and pests

This shrub is very robust and rarely attacked. In warm, humid conditions, watch for spider mites and aphids. Properly dosed watering and good air circulation prevent most problems. Fungal diseases are exceptional on well-established plants.

Did you know?

Baccharis halimifolia is prized in North America for its silvery-white fruits that appear in autumn and remain on the plant for a long time, offering a remarkable winter display. This shrub also plays a major ecological role by providing nectar and seeds to migratory birds late in the season. Its name 'Baccharis' comes from the Greek god Bacchus, although the plant is not edible.

Where to buy it

Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.