Species Big Sagebrush
silver-green foliage and light-brown stems

Big Sagebrush

Artemisia tridentata

Also Known As - Basin Big Sagebrush,Mountain Sagebrush
Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) is an aromatic, drought-tolerant bushy evergreen that is native to North America. Growing up to 4 feet tall, it has tall silvery stems and grey-green leaves covered in an oil that gives off a strong, pungent smell when touched. Its small, yellow, daisy-like flowers bloom from the middle of summer to early autumn. This fast-growing plant is often found in dry, open areas and is an important food source for elk, mule deer, and pronghorn sheep. Big Sagebrush also provides cover and nesting material for a variety of wildlife and is vital for preserving biodiversity.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Big Sagebrush species require infrequent watering and can survive brief periods of drought. The ideal amount for this species is 1-2 gallons of water, spread over the entire root zone, once every 3-4 weeks. If temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing, water may need to be increased to once every 2 weeks. The soil around the plant should be allowed to dry out between waterings to a depth of 3-4 inches. It is important not to overwater as this will lead to root rot.

sunlight

Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) is a shrub that thrives in arid climates and requires plenty of sunlight to grow. This plant species prefers full sun, or 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day, during its peak growing season between early spring and late summer. During other times of the year, Big Sagebrush may do well with slightly less sunlight, provided that there is some degree of natural sunlight available. It is important to note that Big Sagebrush is a hardy species that can tolerate a variety of sunlight conditions, but it is best to provide direct sunlight during its peak growing season if possible.

pruning

Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) should be pruned back in early to midsummer once the plant has flowered. If the shrub is being used for a specific shape, annual pruning is recommended. Pruning should involve removing up to 1 third of the oldest branches to keep the plant healthy and compact. Additionally, dead or diseased branches should be removed during this pruning session. For managing the size of large shrubs, reach into the shrub and stagger pruning so that an even distance is maintained between branches. Prune with sharp tools to ensure heath and clean cuts.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Big Sagebrush typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Big Sagebrush typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.