California sagebrush (Artemisia californica)

California sagebrush

California sagebrush is an evergreen perennial shrub that thrives in poor, well-draining soils. Grown for its silvery foliage, it can grow up to 91 cm tall and prefers higher, drier elevations. Flowers appear yellowish to red.

Scientific classification

Species

California sagebrush (Artemisia californica)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

1.8 m

Plant Height

1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Yellow, Green, Brown

Flower Color

Gray, Bronze

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of California sagebrush

Distribution of California sagebrush

Distribution Map

California sagebrush is indigenous to the Nearctic region, with its presence predominantly in the western part of the North American continent. While it is native to major areas within this region, the species has not been widely introduced or naturalized in other global territories.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal sage scrub, coastal strand, chaparral, dry foothill communities, wildlife gardens, west or north-facing slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Available in a number of cultivars, california sagebrush is a species of shrub used as an ornamental in gardens due to its spicy smell and interesting silver-gray foliage. It's resistant to heat, drought, and wind, as well as most pests and grazers. It is a valuable addition to rock gardens, conservation-friendly gardens, and as specimens in particularly sunny and dry areas of the garden.

Symbolism

Purification, Exorcism

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Quickly Identify California sagebrush

Evergreen subshrub reaching 3-4 feet (91-122 cm) with finely divided, light gray-green foliage.

Threadlike lobes on leaves measuring 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long.

Inconspicuous flowers blending with leafy inflorescence.

Thrives in full to partial sun, prefers well-draining sandy to clay soils.

Emits pleasant aroma when foliage is crushed.

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Care Guide for California sagebrush

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: California sagebrush thrives in dry, coastal scrub environments with hardy drought tolerance. It prefers drier conditions, requiring watering once every 1-2 weeks. Adapted to utilize moisture from coastal fogs, california sagebrush favors well-draining soils, ideally growing outdoors due to its resilience and adaptability.

Fertilize: For california sagebrush, use balanced, slow-release fertilizers annually in early spring to support growth without overstimulation. Follow product guidelines for low-nutrient plants to prevent excess. Water thoroughly post-fertilization to ensure vitality while conserving the natural habitat.

Pruning: California sagebrush thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring, removing dead or leggy branches. Light pruning during the growing season promotes bushier growth while avoiding heavy cuts in summer reduces stress. Clean cuts are essential for enhancing overall appearance and vigor.

Propagation: Native to arid regions, california sagebrush thrives in well-drained soil with minimal water post-establishment. Propagation via cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems enhances root success. Using suitable growing mediums and rooting hormone can improve outcomes, while careful transplanting is essential to prevent root damage.

Repotting: Repot california sagebrush every 2-3 years in early spring to support its growth. Use a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter, with well-draining soil. Minimize watering post-repotting to prevent root rot and maintain its wild resilience.

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