Baccharis salicifolia (Mule Fat)

Native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, Baccharis salicifolia (Mule Fat) is a large semi-evergreen shrub with erect to slightly arching stems clad with sticky, resinous, rich-green leaves that look similar to willow leaves. Blooming almost year-round, a profusion of small, creamy-white fuzzy flowers, tinged with pink or red, are borne in terminal, flat-topped clusters. Butterflies use the blossoms as a nectar source, while bees collect pollen from the flowers. Since Mule Fat blooms nearly year-round, it is a great addition to a garden if you are hoping to attract pollinators. Tough, easy to grow, drought tolerant, Mule Fat is a thicket-forming shrub. This desert shrub is useful for screen, windbreak, or slope stabilization. The common name, Mule Fat, comes from the gold mining days when prospectors and cowboys would tie their mules to the shrub to browse.

• Grows up to 6-12 ft. tall (180-360 cm) and 3-9 ft. wide (90-270 cm).
• Thrives in mesic, sandy soils in full sun. This plant requires some water to look great. Although drought tolerant, it will look weedy and unattractive without enough water.
• Excellent for banks and slopes (erosion control), as a privacy hedge or windbreak.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Prune to shape and improve appearance.
• Propagate by seed or by taking cuttings in summer.
• Native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.