Coyote Brush/ Ohlone

Coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis), is a native shrub found in multiple habitats due to its ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions and range of elevations. This plant has a slight resistance to fire, where, if there's only slightly damaged, growth will start again at the base of the plant. Its seeds are dispersed by wind, and the seeds can adapt and germinate easily in different soils. Seeding gives this plant the ability to overtake local habitats and coastal canyons. Coyote brush tends to bloom from September through January; and the yellow, cream, and white flowers attract several butterfly species. It is known to be an important plant for pollinators since its flowers, along with pollen and nectar, are available during fall and winter months.

There have been documented cases of this plant being used by Indigenous people for practical purposes. For instance, the Ohlone would use Coyote brush as a form of medication for ailments and illnesses. The Chumash Indians on the Santa Ynez Reservation used the leaves as a remedy for poison oak rash, and Native People of Mendocino County used Coyote brush stems in the construction of arrows.