Science · Plants, Natives & Crops
California Sagebrush
Aromatic gray-green coastal sage scrub native, often shedding some foliage in the dry season; not culinary sage.
Artemisia californica · Drought-adapted shrub
Profile
- Light
- Full sun
- Foliage
- Finely divided aromatic leaves
- Habit
- Rounded shrub, commonly 3–5 ft
- Seasonality
- Partial summer leaf loss can be normal
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; depends on soil texture
- Salinity tolerance
- Not reliably characterized for this catalog label; avoid saline irrigation and diagnose with soil/water testing.
- Drought tolerance
- High once established.
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Typical active root zone for established native shrubs and vines. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Infrequent deep establishment water; keep established summer soil relatively dry with good drainage.
Problems to watch
- Crown rot with frequent irrigation
- Excess fertilizer causing weak growth
- Aphids on tender growth
Stress signs
- Blackened basal stems
- Persistent wilt outside normal summer rest
- Progressive bare dead branches
Where you'll find it
- Coastal sage scrub restoration
- Dry slopes and habitat borders
More plants, natives & crops
California BuckwheatCalifornia FuchsiaCalifornia Lilac (Ceanothus)California PoppyCalifornia Wild GrapeCalifornia Wild Rose
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.