Traditional uses of Desertbroom (Baccharis sarothroides)

TL;DR: Desertbroom (Baccharis sarothroides) was traditionally used by the Diegueno people as an infusion for coughs and stomachaches, recorded in 1975 by Leanne Hinton. It is a low-water, low-toxicity shrub not known for human edibility, but valued for its resilience and specific traditional applications.

Last updated: September 13, 2026

What traditional uses of Desertbroom (Baccharis sarothroides) have been recorded?

Among the Diegueno people, Desertbroom was documented as a plant used in infusions for coughs and stomachaches, according to Hinton, 1975. The specific plant part was not recorded, but both uses are clearly described in the ethnobotanical record. No other traditional uses are documented in the available sources.

How did the Diegueno people use Desertbroom for health?

The Diegueno tradition included taking an infusion of Desertbroom for coughs and stomachaches, as recorded by Leanne Hinton in 1975. The details on preparation or plant part are not specified, but both uses are directly attributed to this community's knowledge.

What are the growing requirements and trade-offs for Desertbroom?

Desertbroom grows with low water needs and is not recorded as palatable to humans. Its low toxicity means it is generally safe to handle, but it is not a food plant. The shrub is tough, but it can be weedy and may spread aggressively if left unchecked.

Who should grow Desertbroom and who should skip it?

Gardeners in Central Texas with dry, sunny spots and poor soil may appreciate Desertbroom's resilience. It suits xeriscapes and areas where water is scarce. Skip this plant if you want something edible, have limited space, or dislike plants that can get unruly without regular pruning.

How do the documented traditions compare?

Tradition	Part Used	What Was Recorded	Source
Diegueno	Unspecified	Infusion of plant taken for coughs	Hinton, Leanne, 1975, Journal of California Anthropology 2:214-222, p.220
Diegueno	Unspecified	Infusion of plant taken for stomachaches	Hinton, Leanne, 1975, Journal of California Anthropology 2:214-222, p.220

Is Desertbroom toxic or edible?

Desertbroom is considered to have low toxicity and is not recorded as palatable to humans. This means it's not a risk for most gardeners, but it also doesn't belong in the edible landscape. Pets and children should still be discouraged from chewing on its leaves just to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What traditional medicinal uses of Desertbroom have been recorded?

Desertbroom was recorded among the Diegueno people as a plant used in infusions for coughs and stomachaches, according to Hinton, 1975. The specific plant part was not mentioned, but both uses are clearly documented.

Is Desertbroom safe to grow around children and pets?

Desertbroom is considered to have low toxicity, so it is generally safe to grow around children and pets. However, it is not edible, and it is always wise to discourage chewing or ingestion of any ornamental shrub.

Can Desertbroom be used as a food plant?

Desertbroom is not recorded as palatable to humans and is not considered an edible plant. Its traditional uses were medicinal, not culinary, and it should not be added to the edible landscape.

How much water does Desertbroom need?

Desertbroom has a low water requirement, making it well-suited for xeriscapes and dry gardens. It thrives in areas with infrequent watering and can handle drought conditions typical of Central Texas summers.

Who documented the traditional uses of Desertbroom?

Leanne Hinton documented the use of Desertbroom among the Diegueno people in her 1975 article, 'Notes on La Huerta Diegueno Ethnobotany,' published in the Journal of California Anthropology.

Is Desertbroom difficult to control in the garden?

Desertbroom can become weedy and may spread aggressively if not managed. Regular pruning and monitoring are recommended to keep it in check, especially in gardens where space is limited.

Want this worked out for your own yard?

Dream Landscaper reads the conditions you actually have, then plans around them rather than around a generic zone chart. Start with the city plant guides to see what already thrives near you, and when you want a real layout instead of a list, get your concept and we will take it from there.

Sources

• Hinton, Leanne, 1975, Notes on La Huerta Diegueno Ethnobotany, Journal of California Anthropology 2:214-222, page 220

Valeria and Diego are not doctors, and nothing here is medical advice. This article shares traditional and ancestral plant wisdom that was passed down through generations. It may be beneficial when applied with your own discretion, and with medical supervision as needed.

Thanks for letting me share a little bit of plant history with you, may your garden be as resilient as Desertbroom.