Sand Sagebrush
Sand sagebrush is a native shrub that grows naturally on the shortgrass prairie of Colorado's eastern plains. Its most attractive quality is its feathery blue leaves. The thin leaves and arching branches create a soft, graceful appearance in the landscape.
Sand sagebrush is tolerant of weather extremes, including hail. It can grow on very sandy soil with little extra water. Makes a great choice for windy, dry, sandy locations. The flowers are hardly noticeable.
Sand Sagebrush
Sand sagebrush is a native shrub that grows naturally on the shortgrass prairie of Colorado's eastern plains. Its most attractive quality is its feathery blue leaves. The thin leaves and arching branches create a soft, graceful appearance in the landscape.
Sand sagebrush is tolerant of weather extremes, including hail. It can grow on very sandy soil with little extra water. Makes a great choice for windy, dry, sandy locations. The flowers are hardly noticeable.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Artemisia filifolia
Pronunciation
ar-teh-MEEZ-ee-uh fil-ee-FOH-lee-uh
Mature Height
3 to 4 ft.
Mature Spread
3 to 4 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
yellow, but inconspicuous
Bloom time
midsummer
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
short grass prairie of intermountain states
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4
Elevation Limit
hardy to 8,500 ft.
Performance
There are several sand sagebrushes growing at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden. They are carefree, graceful shrubs that create a nice textural contrast for other plants.
Maintenance
None generally required, but can be cut back to ground level to rejuvenate the plant every few years. If the plant has a lot of branch dieback, try rejuvenation pruning.