SafePlants

*Artemisia ludoviciana* - Aromatic and Versatile

Artemisia ludoviciana, commonly known as White Sagebrush, is a rhizomatous perennial with several other common names including Silver Wormwood, Western Mugwort, Louisiana Wormwood, White Sage, Prairie Sage, Silver Sage, Louisiana Sage, Darkleaf Mugwort, Mexican Sagewort, Gray Sagewort, and Silver King.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
• Synonyms: A. palmeri, A. purshiana
• Taxonomic Rank: Species; Subspecies include Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. candicans and Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. ludoviciana and Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. incompta.

Distribution and Habitat

Artemisia ludoviciana is native to North America, ranging from Baja California to Ontario, Canada, and south to Arkansas. It's adapted to a variety of habitats, and is often found in prairie and open areas.

Morphological Characteristics

• Aromatic perennial, typically growing 3 to 19 dm (approximately 1 to 6 feet) tall.
• The stems are simple up to the inflorescence.
• Leaves are lance-shaped (up to 4 inches long), silver-white, pubescent (covered with soft, short hairs), and somewhat sage-like in appearance.
• Stems and foliage are covered with woolly gray or white hairs.
• Rhizomatous growth habit.

Traditional Uses

Historically, some Native American groups who lacked access to true White Sage (Salvia) may have used *Artemisia ludoviciana* as a substitute. It has also been noted for its disinfecting properties against gastro-intestinal complaints and kidney- and bladder problems, and for its tonicizing and disinfecting qualities.

Ecological Role

The plant is known to be aggressive and rhizomatous, potentially forming dense colonies in suitable environments. May have use in medicine.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Displays repellent properties against rice weevils (*Sitophilus oryzae*) and lesser grain borers.
• Pollinated by wind.