Sand Sagebrush

(Artemisia filifolia)

Sand Sagebrush (Artemisia filifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Artemisia filifolia, commonly known as Sand Sagebrush, is a semi-deciduous subshrub or shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, plains, and sandy washes in the Western United States and Northern Mexico. It typically grows up to 1.5 meters (4 ft 11 in) tall with a loose, open form. The leaves are narrow and thread-like, lending a fine-textured appearance to the plant. The inflorescence is a panicle of small, hanging flower heads that appear in late summer to fall. Each head contains sterile disc florets and 2 to 3 fertile ray florets, which are not particularly showy. The plant’s foliage has a silvery-gray hue and is aromatic, a characteristic trait of many Artemisia species.

Sand Sagebrush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is also used for revegetation efforts on rangeland and coal fields due to its adaptability. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate low to medium water conditions, preferring soils with slow to medium drainage. While not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, it can provide an interesting texture and contrast in water-wise gardens. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and susceptibility to aphids and spider mites. It is also important to note that Sand Sagebrush can spread rapidly by seed and may become invasive in some areas outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 3-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, plains, and sandy washes

Other Names

Common Names: Fine-Leaved Sagebrush, Sand Sage, Prairie Rocket, Silvery Wormwood, Sand-Sage, Sandhill Sage, Dillmalört

Scientific Names: , Artemisia filifolia, Oligosporus filifolius, Artemisia plattensis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Artemisia filifolia Torr.