Baccharis salicifolia (Mulefat)

Photographs

My photos:

This photo was taken in the creekbad of Bell Canyon, Caspers Wilderness Park, Orange County California.

More photos:

Calflora good photos of male and female flowers
ECNCA photos of lush bushes and close up of leaves

click photo to enlarge

Plant Information

Asteraceae

In the garden:

Baccharis salicifolia, also known as B. glutinosa, is a woody shrub growing between 6 and 12 feet in height. It has willow-like stems. It’s green leaves are somewhat toothed along the margin. It has a white flower and it blooms mostly between March and July, but some plants may flower all year. This species is useful in preventing erosion. As it will need a great deal of water, it is recommended for use along a stream or by a pond. As the name implies, this plant is a favorite of browsing livestock. The name Baccharis refers to ‘sweet smelling roots.’ It is considered an important butterfly plant.

In the wild:

Mulefat is mostly found below 3500' along stream banks and in dry stream beds in coastal sage scrub and chaparral. It ranges from Baja to central California and from the coast to the deserts. The Mulefat is a browse source for deer and elk.

Ethnobotany:

The name "Mulefat" comes from the days of the gold rush when miners would tie their mules to the bush and allow them to browse throughout the day. The Cahuillas and other Southern California native people had many uses for the plant such as eyewash, baldness preventative, and building materials.

Field Trips
Anza Borrego Caspers Holy Jim Canyon Idyllwild
Joshua Tree Mt Palomar Rancho Santa Ana Torrey Pines

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