Baccharis patagonica

Baccharis patagonica is an evergreen shrub in the daisy family, Asteraceae. Its common names include Patagonian sea myrtle and Patagonian groundsel bush. It comes from central and southern Chile and southern Argentina. Its native range also includes the Juan Fernández Islands. Wild plants grow in rock cracks, along forest edges, and on coastal sands.

This slow-growing shrub forms a dense, rounded bush. Garden plants reach about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres] tall and wide. The RHS describes a height near 10 feet [3 metres]. Plants can spread as wide as, or wider than, their height. They take 10–20 years to reach full size. Small, glossy leaves stay dark green through the year. Their edges have slight teeth. The thick growth can shade out weeds beneath the plant.

Small flowers grow in clusters from late spring into early summer. Their colour ranges from creamy white to yellow. Plants need both male and female specimens to produce seed. Sow seed in spring to raise new plants. The fruit may upset the stomach if eaten. The RHS advises gloves and other protection when handling this shrub. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. Its lack of recorded hazards does not outweigh the RHS warning.

Grow this shrub in full sun with good soil drainage. It suits moist soil but also accepts other well-drained conditions. It grows in clay, loam, sand, or chalk. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. It can cope with exposed sites and salt in the soil. The RHS rates its hardiness as H4 and advises protection from harsh frost. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10.

This shrub suits coastal hedges, screens, banks, and slopes. Its broad root system helps hold sand and thin coastal soil. It also fits sunny woodland edges, courtyards, and informal gardens. It tolerates clipping, though its slow growth limits how fast gaps fill. Hard pruning can renew growth but may delay flowers for one or two years. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. Resin in the leaves and wood makes them useful as fuel. The shrub's small size limits how much fuel it yields.