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coastal sagebrush
Scientific Name: Artemisia californica
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
California Sagebrush, scientifically known as Artemisia californica, is a native shrub found primarily in California and Baja California, Mexico. It's a key component of the Coastal Sage Scrub ecosystem and is known by several common names, including Coastal Sagebrush, California Sagewort, and California Mugwort.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The plant has aromatic feathery foliage.
- Traditionally, leaves have been used for medicinal treatments.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Artemisia californica Less.
- Common Names: California Sagebrush, Coastal Sagebrush, California Sagewort, California Mugwort, Coast Sagebrush, Cowboy Cologne, Estafiate (Spanish).
- Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
- Genus: Artemisia L. (sagebrush, wormwood, sagewort)
- Synonyms: The provided text lists multiple common names, which can function as synonyms in informal contexts.
Distribution and Habitat
- Endemic to the California chaparral and woodlands ecoregion.
- Found in Coastal Sage Scrub, Coastal Strand, chaparral, and dry foothill communities.
- Ranges from Napa County south throughout coastal California and into northern Baja California, Mexico.
- Also found on the Channel Islands.
- Prefers lower slopes and fans below 2500 ft.
Ecological Role
- Indicator species for Coastal Sage Scrub (CSS).
- The Coastal Sage Scrub ecosystem, where it thrives, is considered endangered and home to numerous endangered species, such as the California gnatcatcher.
- Plays a crucial role in the food web, supporting a great diversity of wildlife.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Evergreen, medium-sized shrub, typically around three feet in height.
- Multi-branched shrub growing to 2-5 feet tall.
- Aromatic feathery foliage with numerous gray-green leaves, usually about one inch in length.
- Adapted to summer drought, typical of plants in the coastal sage scrub.
Quirky Facts
- California Sagebrush is nicknamed "Cowboy Cologne".
Additional Information
- Flowering Season: February through August.
- Considered a good plant for starting back a difficult south-facing coastal sage scrub site.
Resources
- CalPhotos (for images)
- www.insidetheoutdoors.org (for information on the Coastal Sage Scrub ecosystem)