SafePlants

Boreal Sagebrush: A Comprehensive Overview

This page provides information about the plant commonly known as boreal sagebrush, focusing on its taxonomy, distribution, and ecological role.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that sagebrush, including boreal sagebrush, can be found in various habitats, including sagebrush steppe. If you live in or visit areas where boreal sagebrush grows, be mindful of your pets potentially interacting with it.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Artemisia arctica
• Common Name: Boreal Sagebrush
• Other common names mentioned: Alpine Sagewort, Arctic Wormwood, Boreal Sagewort, Mountain Sagewort

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Artemisia
• Species: arctica
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Rank: Subspecies (e.g., Artemisia arctica ssp. comata, Artemisia norvegica subsp. saxatilis, Artemisia arctica ssp. beringensis)
• Synonyms: Artemisia borealis
• Note: The text also refers to Artemisia norvegica as a species of flowering plant in the aster family, closely related to boreal sagebrush.

Distribution and Habitat

• Boreal sagebrush is found in the northern hemisphere, from boreal regions near the Arctic Circle to cooler areas.
• Specific locations mentioned include Anchorage Borough, Alaska.
• It thrives in habitats such as sagebrush steppe.
• The text references the "Ontario Northern Boreal Forest," suggesting its potential presence in that region.

Ecological Role

• Boreal sagebrush is a component of sagebrush steppe ecosystems.
• The text mentions the "Sagebrush Steppe Conservation Project," highlighting the importance of conserving this habitat.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Boreal sagebrush is described as a subshrub and a shrub in different parts of the text.
• It is a perennial plant, meaning it grows year after year.
• The text suggests it prefers locations with at least a few hours of direct sunlight daily.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text mentions Boreal toads inhabiting sage brush habitats.
• The text mentions Artemisia arctica-Trisetum spicatum Plant Association and Boreal Sagebrush-Spike Trisetum Plant Association.

Resources and Further Information

• NatureServe Explorer is mentioned as a source of information, particularly regarding conservation status.
• Discover Life is listed as a resource for biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.