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Description
Artemisia Cana, commonly known as Grey Sage or Silver Sagebrush, is a small evergreen shrub native to the western regions of North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is highly valued for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Artemisia |
Appearance
The Grey Sage can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has silver-grey leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy texture. The leaves are small, measuring only 1-2 inches in length, and are deeply divided into narrow lobes. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, producing small yellow flowers that are held in clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowers are not showy, but the plant’s foliage is highly ornamental.
Care Guide
The Grey Sage is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering. Water deeply when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can give it a light dose of a balanced fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate poor soil, but it will not grow as well.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but it will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Grey Sage is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to a few problems:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent this problem.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
The Grey Sage is found in a variety of habitats, including dry slopes, rocky outcrops, and open woods. It is commonly found in the Great Basin, Mojave Desert, and Rocky Mountains regions of North America. The plant is adapted to arid environments and can tolerate drought, poor soil, and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Grey Sage deer-resistant?
A: Yes, deer tend to avoid the plant because of its bitter taste and fuzzy texture.
Q: Can the plant be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant can be used as a seasoning in savory dishes. They have a strong, slightly bitter flavor.
Q: Is the plant toxic?
A: No, the plant is not toxic, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can the plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Artemisia Frigida
- Artemisia Ludoviciana
- Artemisia Tridentata
- Artemisia Vulgaris
References
- “Artemisia Cana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282608.
- “Artemisia Cana.” Plant Database. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Artemisia+cana.
- “Grey Sage.” High Country Gardens. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/artemisia/artemisia-cana-grey-sage.
