SafePlants

Artemisia ludoviciana

Artemisia ludoviciana, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is known by a multitude of common names, reflecting its widespread presence and varied appearance. These include:

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

It's important to note the distinction between Artemisia ludoviciana (White Sagebrush) and White Sage (Salvia), as these are different plants often confused due to similar common names and traditional uses.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (Daisy Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• 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's found in a variety of habitats, and the text makes reference to its presence in the Columbia Basin and Minnesota.

Morphological Characteristics

• Aromatic, rhizomatous perennial
• Typically grows to a height of 3-19 dm (approximately 1-6 feet)
• Stems are simple up to the inflorescence
• Characterized by white-woolly hairs, at least on the upper parts of the plant
• Leaves are lance-shaped, up to 4 inches long, silver-white, pubescent, and somewhat sage-like in appearance.

Ecological Role

• Can be considered aggressive due to its rhizomatous growth habit.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, Native Americans who lacked access to White Sage (Salvia) may have used Sagebrush (Artemisia).
• Traditionally used for disinfecting against gastro-intestinal complaints and kidney- and bladder problems and for tonicizing.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant has repellent properties against rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae) and lesser grain borers.

Considerations for Pets

• Some varieties of Artemisia (unspecified in this text) are cited as being poisonous to livestock, horses, and pets.

Quirky Facts

• The essential oil of Artemisia ludoviciana is a clear liquid with a fresh, herbaceous-fruity bouquet and a soft, green undertone.
• The plant's foliage is described as having a sage-like appearance, contributing to its common name confusion with true sage (Salvia).
• White sagebrush is also being used as a decorative item (balls)

Further Information

• Amazon.com offers seeds for sale
• Photos and information are available regarding the Minnesota Flora - White Sagebrush.
• Research information about White Sagebrush allergy is available.