Baccharis douglasii, commonly known as Marsh Baccharis or Douglas’ Falsewillow, is a rhizomatous perennial herb native to wetland areas, including coastal and inland marshes, riparian zones, and wet meadows in western North America. It typically grows up to two meters tall and features lance-shaped leaves with resinous, sticky foliage that can help protect the plant from herbivores. The plant is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female plants. Male flowers are arranged in clusters, while female flowers are more conspicuous, forming fluffy, cotton-like bunches that are wind-pollinated. Flowering occurs from late summer to fall, adding interest to the landscape during this period.

Marsh Baccharis is valued for its adaptability to wet conditions and its ability to stabilize soil, making it useful for restoration projects and erosion control. It is also appreciated for its wildlife value, as it provides habitat and food for various insects and birds. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While not commonly found in ornamental gardens, it can be used in naturalized plantings or as part of a water garden. Care should be taken as it can spread aggressively via rhizomes in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0