Big Sagebrush
Artemisia tridentata
An iconic aromatic shrub of the American West with silvery-blue foliage and pungent scent. Dominates vast landscapes across the Great Basin and provides critical habitat for wildlife.
Asteraceae (Aster family)
Late summer to early fall (August-October)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: desert milkweeds and cliff rose flowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Big Sagebrush is the quintessential symbol of the American West, covering 422,000 square miles across 11 states. It's Nevada's state flower and featured in countless Western paintings, literature, and films. The plant provides critical habitat for sage grouse, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and nearly 100 bird species. Its pungent, memorable scent evokes the vast open spaces of the Great Basin.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight
Water
Extremely drought-tolerant; receives 7-15 inches (18-40 cm) annual precipitation; susceptible to root rot if too wet
Soil
Well-drained, Dry, Rocky, Sandy to loam, Basic to slightly acidic
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in well-drained soil; intolerant of waterlogged conditions
Requires minimal to no supplemental water once established
Periodic pruning removes old stems and rejuvenates plants
Three subspecies adapted to distinct environments (basin, mountain, Wyoming)
Highly aromatic when wet or crushed
Can live over 100 years once established
Important to use seed from appropriate local subspecies
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Xeriscape and native plant gardens
- Erosion control on slopes
- Wildlife habitat restoration
- Drought-tolerant landscapes
- Roadside and median plantings
- Western-themed gardens
Traditional Uses
- Traditional tea for nasal congestion, colds, and sore throat
- Antimicrobial and antifungal properties for wound cleaning
- Used by Native Americans for headaches and body aches
- Leaves placed in shoes as foot deodorant
- Contains camphor and terpenoids with aromatic properties
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Big Sagebrush
What is big sagebrush used for?
Big Sagebrush provides critical wildlife habitat for sage grouse, mule deer, and pronghorn. It's also used medicinally by Native Americans, as firewood, and for erosion control in restoration projects.
Is big sagebrush the same as culinary sage?
No, Big Sagebrush is not culinary sage. It's in the Artemisia genus (related to wormwood), while culinary sage is Salvia officinalis. Big Sagebrush tastes bitter and is not used for cooking.
Why is sagebrush important for wildlife?
Sagebrush provides year-round food and shelter for over 350 species, including sage grouse (which depend on it for 70% of their diet), mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and nearly 100 bird species.
How long does big sagebrush live?
Big Sagebrush can live over 100 years once established. However, it's slow to recover from fire or disturbance and relies on wind-blown seeds for re-establishment.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Cliff Rose Flower
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Blue Grama Flower
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