Big Sagebrush
(Artemisia tridentata)
Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)
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Bobby McCabe
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Bobby McCabe
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Bobby McCabe | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Bobby McCabe | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-10-05T15:08:05-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Artemisia tridentata, commonly known as Big Sagebrush, is an evergreen shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of the Western United States and Western Canada, particularly thriving in the Great Basin in the sagebrush steppe ecosystems. Big Sagebrush typically ranges from 0.5–3 meters in height and is characterized by its many-branched, pale-grey appearance with a dense covering of silvery-grey, aromatic foliage. The plant’s yellow flowers are small and inconspicuous, blooming in long, loosely arranged tubular clusters during the late summer or early fall. The fruits are seed-like with a fine hair covering, aiding in wind dispersal.
Big Sagebrush is valued for its hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in dry regions. Its deep root system allows it to access water from deep within the soil, contributing to its longevity and ability to live over 100 years. The plant’s aromatic leaves are a distinctive feature, and it serves as an important habitat and food source for wildlife in its native range. In cultivation, it requires full sun, minimal water once established, and well-drained soils. It is not commonly used in traditional garden settings but can be an excellent choice for restoration projects and as a habitat plant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Big Sagebrush is valued for its hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in dry regions. Its deep root system allows it to access water from deep within the soil, contributing to its longevity and ability to live over 100 years. The plant’s aromatic leaves are a distinctive feature, and it serves as an important habitat and food source for wildlife in its native range. In cultivation, it requires full sun, minimal water once established, and well-drained soils. It is not commonly used in traditional garden settings but can be an excellent choice for restoration projects and as a habitat plant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-15 feet
- Width: 3-10 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant
Natural Habitat
Sagebrush steppe ecosystems
Other Names
Common Names: Great Basin Sagebrush , Sagebrush
Scientific Names: Artemisia tridentata
GBIF Accepted Name: Artemisia tridentata (Nutt.) W.A.Weber