Western Sagebrush
Western Sagebrush is perhaps the most important shrub of the western rangelands. It supports a number of native mammals, birds, and insects with food and shelter.
Its shape varies, ranging from irregular and upright to a broad oval. The leaves are light gray-green in color and produce a wonderful scent after a rainstorm.
In late summer, it develops small, yellow flowers in panicles. Seedheads are whitish-tan and showy.
This is an excellent choice for a low-water landscape that will provide multiple benefits to wildlife.
Western Sagebrush
Western Sagebrush is perhaps the most important shrub of the western rangelands. It supports a number of native mammals, birds, and insects with food and shelter.
Its shape varies, ranging from irregular and upright to a broad oval. The leaves are light gray-green in color and produce a wonderful scent after a rainstorm.
In late summer, it develops small, yellow flowers in panicles. Seedheads are whitish-tan and showy.
This is an excellent choice for a low-water landscape that will provide multiple benefits to wildlife.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata
Pronunciation
ar-teh-MEEZ-ee-uh try-den-TAY-ta
Mature Height
4 to 6 ft.
Mature Spread
3 to 6 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
dull yellow
Bloom time
mid to late summer
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
Rocky Mountains and western North America
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 9,500 ft.
Performance
Western sagebrush is a tough, xeric shrub, native to western Colorado shrublands.
At the Water Wise Demonstration Garden, these shrubs have attractive twisted, gnarled branches. Their shape is irregular. They have survived for many years without any supplemental water.
Maintenance
Prune out broken or dead branches as needed.