Artemisia tridentata (Big Sagebrush)

Artemisia tridentata (Big Sagebrush) is an evergreen shrub or small tree with gnarled branches clothed with highly aromatic, small, silky, silvery leaves, usually tipped with 3 teeth. The foliage emits sweet, pungent aroma when bruised. Tiny, yellow-green flowers appear in late summer, but they are quite inconspicuous. Big Sagebrush tends to develop a short, twisted trunk with age, becoming quite picturesque in the landscape. Native of the Great Basin region of the West, Big Sagebrush is a valuable forage plant for wildlife, particularly during the winter. In the landscape, it adds texture, light and contrast and offsets colorful plants.

• Grows up to 3-15 ft. tall (90-450 cm) and 3-10 ft. wide (90-300 cm).
• Thrives in dry, rocky soils in full sun. Once established it will want little or no irrigation in the summer. Extremely drought tolerant and is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
• Excellent for banks and slopes (erosion control), as a groundcover or hedge.
• Generally pest and disease free. Deer resistant.
• Periodic pruning to remove old stems rejuvenates the plant.
• Propagate by stratified seeds or cuttings.
• Native to the western United States and Canada.