California sagebrush (Artemisia californica, Linnaea 6: 523 (1831))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Less.

Bibliography: Linnaea 6: 523 (1831)

Year: 1831

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Artemisia

Vegetable: False

Observations: California to Mexico (Baja California)

Description

California sagebrush, scientifically known as Artemisia californica, is a noteworthy member of the Asteraceae family, recognized for its distinct aromatic foliage and ecological significance. First described in 1831 by Less, this resilient plant has carved its niche across a diverse geographical range extending from California to Baja California in Mexico.

This perennial shrub typically thrives in coastal scrub and chaparral habitats, favoring well-drained soils and full sunlight. It adapts well to arid conditions, making it a quintessential species in the drought-prone landscapes of Southern California. Its slender, greenish-gray leaves exude a strong, pleasant fragrance when crushed, a characteristic feature that not only defines its identity but also serves as a natural deterrent against herbivores.

California sagebrush holds a vital role in its native ecosystem. It provides essential cover for a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and its foliage offers food for certain insects. Moreover, its deep root system helps prevent soil erosion, contributing to the stability of the landscapes it inhabits.

The plant has also found its way into traditional and contemporary uses. Indigenous peoples have historically utilized its leaves for medicinal purposes, leveraging its properties to treat ailments such as colds and rheumatism. In modern settings, California sagebrush is appreciated in xeriscaping and native plant gardens, prized for its drought resistance and minimal maintenance needs.

In summary, Artemisia californica exemplifies the unique flora of the Pacific Coast, celebrated for its ecological benefits, historical significance, and continued utility in sustainable landscaping. Its presence from the coasts of California to the rugged terrains of Baja California underscores its adaptability and enduring importance in the region’s natural heritage.

Common Names

Eng: california sagebrush, coastal sagebrush, californian sagebrush
En: California sagebrush, Coastal sagebrush, Californian sagebrush
Fa: درمنه آمریکایی
Th: เซจบรัชแคลิฟอร์เนีย

Synonyms

• Crossostephium foliosum (Rydb.)
• Artemisia fischeriana (Besser)
• Artemisia foliosa (Nutt.)
• Artemisia fischeriana var. vegetior (Besser)
• Crossostephium californicum ((Less.) Rydb.)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Mar 26, 2016 by EOL − kennyhan (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Michael Amged (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 30, 2016 by EOL − Jenny Mulholland-Beahrs (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 28, 2016 by EOL − ziye (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 13, 2019 by Roberta (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jan 24, 2016 by EOL − Riah Buchanan (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 22, 2021 by Dan Kent (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − rudyard (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 2, 2019 by Anastasia Shamina (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)

Other

Taken Nov 11, 2022 by KP Laer (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2020 by Lane Haden (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 22, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 22, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Feb 1, 2016 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 12, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 20, 2015 by EOL − syunlin14 (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 22, 2020 by valerie lorne (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Feb 1, 2016 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 19, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 12, 2018 by Uday Wali (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 16, 2008 by EOL − Jorg and Mimi Fleige (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 4, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)

Bark

Taken Jun 17, 2015 by EOL − Cedric Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 11, 2015 by EOL − Cedric Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2016 by EOL − kevinhintsa (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 12, 2014 by EOL − Mickie Tang (cc-by)

Taken Mar 7, 2022 by juan gonzalez (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3120755)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:179291-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Artemisia californica Less.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Shrub

Growth