Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata
Basin Big Sagebrush (Native)

Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata
Basin Big Sagebrush (Native)

Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata,
Basin Big Sagebrush (Native)

Medium to tall, 3 – 12 ft., evergreen shrub widely distributed throughout much of the western US. The Big Sagebrush complex is one of the most widespread and economically important shrubs in North America. Usually found on well-drained, most any textured soils, in valley bottoms, lower foothills and along drainages in more fertile productive sites than other Big Sagebrush subspecies. Grows in the 9 – 20 inch precip. zone from 2,000 – 7,000 ft. elev. Not fire-tolerant and abundance has been greatly reduced by wildfires. Very valuable species for wildlife food and cover. Fair to excellent forage for deer, antelope, elk, sage grouse, pygmy rabbits etc. Excellent cover for wildlife also. Usually considered poor-fair forage for livestock. Very valuable shrub for restoration of western rangelands and wildlands. Establishes well from seed in most cases. Plant in fall or winter on snow or on top of rough soil surface to 1/8 inch deep. 2,500,000 seeds/lb.

USDA: Plant Profile | Plant Guide