Artemisia nova, also known as Black Sagebrush, is a popular shrub native to the western United States. This evergreen shrub has a maximum height of 0.5 meters (1 foot 8 inches) and is highly drought-resistant. One of the standout features of this plant is its ability to deter browsing deer, making it a great choice for landscapes and gardens.
In terms of physical characteristics, Artemisia nova is an evergreen shrub that can grow in a variety of soil types, including light sandy and medium loamy soils. It requires well-drained soil and can tolerate both neutral and alkaline soils, including very alkaline soils. This shrub can grow in semi-shade or no shade and can thrive in both dry and moist soil conditions. It is also known for its ability to withstand drought.
Conservation plant characteristics of Artemisia nova include its perennial growth habit as a subshrub or shrub. It is native to the lower 48 states of the U.S. and is not listed as threatened or endangered. The plant has a long lifespan and can resprout after harvesting. It does not have any significant allelopathic properties and is not toxic.
This shrub is adaptable to a wide range of soil textures, including coarse, fine, and medium textured soils. It has medium to high CaCO3 tolerance and has a low fertility requirement. Artemisia nova has low tolerance to fire and hedge, and it prefers low moisture use. It can tolerate a wide pH range, from 7.0 to 8.5.
Artemisia nova produces brown flowers and has green foliage that is dense in summer and moderate in winter. The fruit and seed are brown but not conspicuous. It has a moderate growth rate and reaches a maximum height of 2 feet at 20 years. The shrub has a long lifespan and is known for its high fruit and seed abundance. It can be propagated by bare root or container and is commercially available as field collections.
In terms of suitability and use, Artemisia nova is not typically consumed by humans or used for commercial products. However, it is moderately palatable for browse animals and slightly palatable for graze animals. It has medium protein potential and can be used for wildlife habitat improvement. It is not suitable for Christmas tree, fodder, fuelwood, lumber, or naval store products.
Overall, Artemisia nova, or Black Sagebrush, is a versatile and resilient shrub that is well-suited for landscapes and gardens in the western United States. Its ability to withstand drought and deter browsing deer make it a valuable addition to any garden.