SafePlants

Artemisia ludoviciana: White Sagebrush and its Many Names

Artemisia ludoviciana, a member of the Asteraceae family, is known by a plethora of common names, reflecting its widespread distribution and varied appearance. These include:

• Silver Wormwood
• Western Mugwort
• Louisiana Wormwood
• White Sagebrush
• Gray Sagewort
• Wild Sage
• Prairie Sage
• Wormwood
• White Mugwort
• Louisiana Sage
• Darkleaf Mugwort
• Mexican Sagewort
• Silver Sage
• White Sage

It's important to note that "Sagebrush" can refer to several woody species, and care should be taken to distinguish Artemisia ludoviciana from others.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (also known as the daisy family)
• Synonyms: A. palmeri, A. purshiana
• Subspecies: Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. candicans, Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. ludoviciana, Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. incompta

Distribution and Habitat

Artemisia ludoviciana is a rhizomatous perennial native to North America, ranging from Baja California to Ontario, Canada, and as far south as Arkansas. It is considered native in some areas and introduced in others, though specific county-level data is often unavailable.

Morphological Characteristics

• Aromatic perennial, typically growing 3-19 dm tall (approximately 1-6 feet).
• Stems are simple up to the inflorescence.
• Characterized by white-woolly foliage, at least on the upper parts of the plant.
• Leaves are lance-shaped, silver-white, pubescent (covered in fine hairs), and can grow up to 4 inches long.

Ecological Role

Artemisia ludoviciana is described as aggressive and rhizomatous, suggesting it can spread readily in suitable conditions. It is also described as a perennial forb growing 1 to 3 feet high on an erect stem that is covered with dense material.

Traditional Uses

Historically, some Native American groups may have used sagebrush species when white sage (Salvia) was unavailable.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant's essential oil has shown repellent properties against rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae) and lesser grain borers.
• It's pollinated by wind.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is described as having an essential oil with certain chemical properties.
• It grows to several feet tall.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is described as having an essential oil with certain chemical properties.
• It grows to several feet tall.

Quirky Facts

• The plant's essential oil has a boiling point of 190°C (374°F).
• The plant's white foliage makes it a popular choice for contrasting colors in gardens.