Little Sagebrush

(Artemisia arbuscula)

Little Sagebrush (Artemisia arbuscula)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Artemisia arbuscula, commonly known as Little Sagebrush or Low Sagebrush, is a perennial shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of the Great Basin and the Intermountain West in the United States. It thrives in sagebrush steppe ecosystems, often on well-drained, rocky, or clay-rich soils. Little Sagebrush typically forms compact, gray-green mounds that can reach up to 12 inches in height and spread to about 18 inches wide. The plant is characterized by its fine-textured, aromatic foliage and woody base. During its flowering season, which occurs from late summer to fall, it produces spike-shaped inflorescences with clusters of inconspicuous pale yellow disc florets that are not particularly showy.

Little Sagebrush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in its native range. It is also used for erosion control and as a habitat plant for wildlife, providing essential food and cover. In cultivation, it requires minimal water once established, prefers full sun, and tolerates a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage. Little Sagebrush is not typically grown in ornamental gardens but is important for its ecological role in native plant communities.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Sagebrush steppe ecosystems, often on well-drained, rocky, or clay-rich soils in the Great Basin and Intermountain West regions

Other Names

Common Names: Low Sagebrush, Black Sage, Sagebrush

Scientific Names: , Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia arbuscula var. arbuscula, Artemisia tridentata var. arbuscula, Seriphidium arbuscula subsp. arbuscula, Seriphidium arbuscula var. arbuscula, Seriphidium arbusculum subsp. arbusculum, Seriphidium arbusculum var. arbusculum,

GBIF Accepted Name: