Willow groundsel (Barkleyanthus salicifolius)

Also known as: Willow Baccharis, Seep Willow

Willow groundsel (Barkleyanthus salicifolius) is a flowering shrub native to the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. In some parts of Mexico, it is abundant enough to be considered a weed, although it is also grown as an ornamental plant. Additionally, it is used in certain corn insecticides.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Willow groundsel

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1 m to 4 m

Spread

1.2 m to 2.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

0.5 to 1 inch (approximately 1 to 2.5 centimeters)

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Willow groundsel

Quickly Identify Willow groundsel

Look for lanceolate leaves that resemble willow leaves, yellow flower heads in dense clusters, and a shrubby stature. The leaves are alternately arranged and the plant often grows in moist environments.

Scientific Classification of Willow groundsel

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Willow ragwort

Species

Willow groundsel

Planting and Growing of Willow groundsel

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Willow groundsel?

When watering Barkleyanthus salicifolius, aim for approximately 300 ml per watering session. This amount ensures that the soil remains moist but not soggy, allowing for proper aeration of the roots. Ensure that the excess water drains out completely to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Willow groundsel? ›

What should I do if my Willow groundsel is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Willow groundsel? ›

How to save an overwatered Willow groundsel? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Willow groundsel?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

The plant thrives best under full sun to partial sun conditions, which ensures optimal growth, vigor, and photosynthetic activity, keeping the plant healthy and flourishing.

What is the best lighting for Barkleyanthus salicifolius? ›

How to ensure it gets the ideal light? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting bring? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Willow groundsel?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For Barkleyanthus salicifolius to thrive, it's best to maintain a temperature range of 65°F to 75°F. This ensures that the plant can photosynthesize efficiently and grow at a steady rate. Keeping the temperature in this range mimics its native habitat closely, providing an environment where it can flourish.

What Soil is Best for Willow groundsel?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Barkleyanthus salicifolius thrives in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The loose structure of well-drained soil ensures roots receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, promoting healthy growth. This plant benefits from soils with moderate nutrient levels, ensuring sufficient nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium availability. This helps in maintaining vibrant foliage and strong root development. While the soil should be well-drained, it must also retain some moisture to keep the plant adequately hydrated. This balance helps in maintaining consistent plant growth and reduces drought stress.

How to Fertilize Willow groundsel?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Barkleyanthus salicifolius thrives on a balanced approach to fertilization. During the growing season, apply a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength twice a month. For slow-release fertilizers, apply around 50 grams evenly distributed in the soil once every four months.

How to Prune Willow groundsel?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

While Barkleyanthus salicifolius can be pruned throughout the year, light pruning in early spring is particularly beneficial for new growth stimulation. Ensure not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time. Over-pruning can stress the plant and inhibit its ability to recover and flourish. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Willow groundsel plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Cover them lightly with soil, maintain moisture, and provide light for optimal germination.

Select healthy stems and use pruning shears to cut them just below a node. Remove lower leaves to expose a clean cut surface and allow for rooting.

Divide mature plants during spring or early summer by carefully separating the root clumps and ensuring each division has sufficient roots and shoots.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Willow groundsel plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

For Barkleyanthus salicifolius, the perfect time to consider repotting is when you notice rootbound signs such as roots poking out of the drainage holes or circling the top of the soil. These signs indicate that the plant needs more space to grow and thrive. Early spring or early summer is ideal, as the growing season provides the plant the necessary conditions to establish in its new pot. Observing these signals ensures the plant's health and vitality.

Selecting the right pot for Barkleyanthus salicifolius involves choosing one that is just one size larger than the current pot. This prevents overwatering issues and allows room for the roots to expand. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water from pooling, which can lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are excellent as they allow soil to dry out faster, benefiting plants that need well-drained conditions.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix when repotting Barkleyanthus salicifolius. This mix should consist of organic material to retain some moisture, along with sand or perlite to ensure excess water drains away quickly, preventing root rot. Such soil conditions mimic the plant’s natural environment, promoting robust growth and healthy root development.