What they do
Desert broom (Baccharis spp.) can add lots of small flowers and shrubby structure that many beneficial insects use.
Plant profile
Desert broom
Genus Baccharis (some spp.)
Desert broom is a common name used for several Baccharis species. These tough, sun-loving native shrubs can help fill in dry, open spaces with lots of small flowers that many insects can use.
Plant Type
Wildflowers (herbaceous perennials) > Desert broom
Aliases
Desert broom
Native Range
Varies by species within the genus Baccharis; choose locally appropriate species when possible.
Bloom window
Seasonal bloom with many small flowers (timing varies by species)
OVERVIEW
About This Plant
Desert broom is a common name used for several plants in the genus Baccharis (some species). If you’re building a habitat-style garden, it can be a useful “backbone” shrub: it’s often hardy in sunny, open spots and can produce lots of small flowers that attract a mix of insects.
Because the name can refer to different species, the most important step is matching the exact plant to your site. Look for a label that includes Baccharis and, if possible, the full species name. Then place it where it can stay long-term—these shrubs generally do best when they aren’t babied with rich soil and frequent watering.
In a pollinator patch, desert broom works best when it’s part of a team: pair it with early-, mid-, and late-blooming plants so there’s something in flower across the growing season. Add a few grasses or other sturdy plants for structure, and keep pesticides out of the space so beneficial insects can do their job.
Best role for pollinators
Sunny, dry-to-average sites where you want a hardy native shrub that supports insect activity and adds habitat structure.
FAST FACTS
Quick Details
Essential stats and requirements for quick reference.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Desert broom |
| Bloom window | Seasonal bloom with many small flowers (timing varies by species) |
| Typical height | Varies by species; often a medium to large shrub |
| Pollinators supported | Bees, Butterflies, Flies, Wasps |
| Light & moisture | Full sun to bright light; dry to average moisture with good drainage. |
| Best roles for pollinators | Sunny, dry-to-average sites where you want a hardy native shrub that supports insect activity and adds habitat structure. |
SUMMARY
If You Remember Three Things
A quick scan of what they do, what they need, and the best first step.
What they need
A bright, open spot and soil that drains well; once established, it usually needs little extra water.
One best action
Place it in a sunny, well-drained area and let it settle in with minimal fuss.
IMPACT
Why Plant This?
Desert broom (Baccharis spp.) can be a practical habitat shrub: it’s generally tough, can bloom with many small flowers, and adds structure that helps insects use a space.
Because “desert broom” can mean different Baccharis species, it’s worth checking the exact plant label so you can match it to your site and local native options.
Key Impacts
What it Supports
- Many small flowers can provide easy-to-access nectar and pollen for a range of insects.
- Shrubby plants add structure—places to rest, hide, and move through a garden or habitat patch.
- A tough, drought-tolerant plant can help you keep habitat going with less watering.
RECOGNITION
Identification Guide
Look for an airy, broom-like shrub form with many small flower clusters.
Leaves
Varies by species; often small and simple, sometimes narrow; overall plant can look airy or broom-like.
Flowers
Many small flowers in clusters; not showy individually but noticeable in mass.
Fruits
Often produces small, wind-dispersed seeds; appearance varies by species.
LOCATION
Where It Grows
Native environments and the best spots to place it in your landscape.
Habitats
- Dry open areas
- Sunny edges and disturbed sites
- Scrub and shrubland-type habitats (species-dependent)
Where it is often used
- Dry border or sunny edge planting
- Habitat hedge or informal screen (where appropriate)
- Naturalized areas and low-water gardens
- Filling gaps between showier wildflowers and grasses
SEASONALITY
When It Blooms
Notes on bloom windows and how this plant helps pollinators across the seasons.
Bloom window
Bloom timing depends on the Baccharis species and local conditions.
Bloom Season Role: Filler bloom made of many small flowers; useful when you want steady, easy forage.
Seasonal benefits
- Adds consistent forage made up of many tiny flowers
- Supports a mix of small pollinators and beneficial insects
REQUIREMENTS
What It Needs
The right mix of sun, soil, and space for healthy growth.
Sun exposure
Best in full sun; tolerates some part sun.
Soil type
Well-drained soils are key; avoid heavy, constantly wet ground.
Moisture needs
Water to establish; after that, water only during extended dry spells if needed.
Planting method
Give it room for its mature size and airflow; place where it can stay without frequent moving.
Mulching tips
Use a light mulch layer to reduce weeds, keeping mulch off the stem base.
GARDENING GUIDE
How to Grow It
Simple steps to plant, prune, and maintain healthy trees without pesticides.
Planting tips
- Pick a sunny spot with good drainage.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and a bit wider.
- Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill, gently firm the soil, and water in well.
- Keep evenly moist during establishment, then taper watering as the plant settles.
Seasonal care
- Water occasionally during the first growing season; reduce once established.
- Weed around the base so young plants aren’t crowded.
- Prune lightly only if needed to shape or remove dead wood; avoid heavy pruning right before expected bloom.
- Leave some stems and seed heads when possible for habitat value, then tidy in a season that won’t remove most buds.
What not to do
- Planting in a low spot where water collects
- Watering on a schedule long after the plant is established
- Pruning hard at the wrong time
- Using pesticides to control minor insect damage
Pairings
Best Pairings for Season-Long Bloom
Pairing ideas to keep pollinators fed throughout the growing season.
Early Bloom
- Early-blooming native wildflowers (local options)
- Spring-flowering shrubs suited to your area
Mid-Season Bloom
- Summer-blooming native wildflowers
- Native grasses for structure
Late-Season Bloom
- Late-season native wildflowers
- Other fall-blooming shrubs (local options)
“Desert broom” is a shared common name—ask for the full scientific label and choose a Baccharis species that fits your region and site.
GLOSSARY
Key Terms
A few quick terms you might see on plant tags or garden guides:
Glossary terms are being added.
What You Can Do
Make a difference for native habitats.
Turn this knowledge into action. Whether you plant a single pot or a whole garden, you are building a vital bridge for local biodiversity.
Join the movement to restore our shared habitats.