sagebrush

Sagebrush refers to several species of woody shrubs in the genus Artemisia, most notably Artemisia tridentata, commonly known as big sagebrush. It is a dominant plant of the sagebrush steppe in western North America, occurring in dry, well-drained soils from southern British Columbia and Alberta to northern Mexico, and across much of the Intermountain West.

Big sagebrush is a long-lived perennial shrub, typically 1 to 3 meters tall. It has gray-green, aromatic leaves and slender, woody stems. In late summer it produces small yellowish flower heads arranged in compact inflorescences. The plant is well adapted to aridity and poor soils, often forming extensive canopies that influence microclimates and soil moisture.

Ecology and habitat: Sagebrush ecosystems provide shelter and forage for a variety of wildlife and are considered keystone habitats in their regions. The greater sage-grouse, in particular, relies on sagebrush for cover and winter diet. Sagebrush helps reduce erosion and moderates temperature in harsh landscapes, supporting a distinctive plant and animal community.

Disturbance and conservation: Many sagebrush landscapes have been altered by fire, invasive grasses, and land development. The spread of annual grasses such as cheatgrass increases fire frequency, which can suppress sagebrush and promote juniper encroachment in some areas. Sagebrush recovery after fire is slow and often requires reseeding and habitat restoration. Management strategies frequently address fire regimes, invasive species control, and juniper removal to restore or maintain habitat.

Uses: Indigenous peoples have used sagebrush in traditional medicines and ceremonies, and its oils have been utilized in remedies. Wildlife such as mule deer and pronghorn browse sagebrush, while cattle generally show limited preference for mature plants.