Baccharis halimifolia - Groundsel tree

Over 300 species of Baccharis are native to the Americas. Some species are leafless with photosynthetic stems. The groundsel tree is a native evergreen shrub to twelve feet or more in height. Seedlings grow rapidly and come up in disturbed areas in a wide range of environments. The plant is attractive in full flower, usually in late fall. Small white flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators and give rise to many small, dandelion-like seeds that float long distances in the autumn winds. Native Americans and early settlers used this plant to treat colds and other respiratory ailments. The twiggy stems were also used to make homemade brooms.