Baccharis halimifolia aka Eastern Baccharis

Baccharis halimifolia is a woody shrub in the daisy family. Common names include eastern baccharis, saltbush, and groundsel bush. Its native range runs from eastern Canada to Mexico. It also includes the Bahamas and Cuba. It grows along coasts, in marshes, and on disturbed ground. Sandy sites, roadside ditches, and open fields suit it.

This fast-growing shrub often has several trunks and many branches. Its crown can be rounded, upright, or open and sparse. Garden plants reach about 5–12 feet [1.5–3.7 metres] tall. Reported spreads range from 4–10 feet [1.2–3 metres]. Some plants reach 15 feet [4.6 metres] or more. A single trunk can give it a small-tree form. Gray or reddish-brown bark gains grooves and broad, flat ridges. Young twigs are thin, green, angled, and sometimes sticky. Simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Their shapes range from narrow ovals to near diamonds. Some have coarse teeth toward the tip; others lack teeth. Leaves may look gray-green or shiny green, with paler undersides. Plants shed leaves, though some keep foliage into winter.

Small white or cream flower heads appear from August to October. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Both sexes must be present for fruit to form. Branched flower clusters grow at the ends of stems. Female plants then bear small fruits called achenes. Long white bristles give the seedheads a soft, silvery look. These fruits ripen in fall, and wind spreads the seeds. Flowers draw insects and butterflies, while birds eat the seeds. The branches also give wildlife cover.

Full sun suits this shrub, though it tolerates partial shade. Moist to wet soil supports growth, with good drainage preferred. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and shallow, rocky ground. It also withstands drought, heat, poor soil, and salt spray. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA hardiness zones 5–10. Uses include rain gardens, pond edges, and coastal planting. Pruning can shape a hedge or a single-trunked plant. Its roots can help hold loose coastal soil.

Sources report few major pest or disease issues. Weak wood can break, and seedlings may spread fast. The RHS lists it as invasive and sale-banned in Britain. PFAF records no known edible use. Leaves can poison livestock when eaten in large amounts. PFAF also records past use for easing coughs.