Big Sagebrush
Artemisia tridentata
Shrub
Bloom
August — September
Color
Pale Yellow
Height
24—48 inches
Spread
24—36 inches
Sun
Full sun (6+ hours)
Water
Very low — drought tolerant
A foundational Colorado native shrub that anchors xeriscape plantings with silvery-gray aromatic foliage. The plant is extremely drought tolerant and prefers lean, well-draining soil. While the flowers are small and inconspicuous, the foliage is highly aromatic and provides habitat for over 350 species of wildlife. A long-lived, low-maintenance shrub that improves with age.
Growing conditions
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy/rocky
- Sun: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Water: Very low — drought tolerant
- Drought tolerance: Excellent
- Hardiness: Colorado native / adapted · USDA Zones 4–7
Wildlife & ecology
- Pollinator value: Moderate — aromatic foliage habitat
- Landscape use: Large landscape anchors, windbreaks, wildlife habitat, silver foliage contrast.
Want Big Sagebrush in your yard?
Xeris designs and installs native plant xeriscapes across Denver and the Front Range. We'll walk your site, assess soil and sun, and build a plan that thrives.
Request a free consultation