California Sagebrush
artemisia californica
Also known as: ["California Sagebrush","Coastal Sagebrush"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant shrub native to coastal sage scrub habitats of California, known for its silvery-gray foliage and pungent aroma.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia californica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or dry, sunny slopes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, less in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry fully between waterings; reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cooler coastal conditions but is sensitive to extreme heat and frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, annually if desired
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize sparingly; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; wilting or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of root rot if soil stays wet in cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure well-draining soil; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fragrance; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArtemisia californica is not toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, but the plant is not considered harmful under normal circumstances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicCalifornia sagebrush is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant's essential oils may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts, but it does not pose a significant health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicArtemisia californica, commonly known as California sagebrush, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its aromatic compounds. The plant is not known to produce significant toxic effects under normal exposure conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is California Sagebrush suitable for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and ideal for xeriscaping.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It requires minimal watering, especially once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, less in win |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
