Artemisia californica

Artemisia californica
Artemisia californica in Gaviota State Park, California

Apparently Secure (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Artemisia
Species:
A. californica
Binomial name
Artemisia californica
Synonyms
  • Artemisia abrotanoides Nutt.
  • Artemisia fischeriana Besser
  • Artemisia foliosa Nutt.
  • Crossostephium californicum (Less.) Rydb.

Artemisia californica, also known as California sagebrush or cowboy cologne (due to its fragrant smell), is a species of shrub in the sunflower family that is endemic to western California and northwestern Baja California.

California sagebrush is considered a keystone species within its native habitat due to its widespread ecosystem services and prevalence. In the western United States, California sagebrush is often grown in native plant gardens and as a drought-resistant landscaping choice. In addition to its drought resistance and capacity to draw pollinators like bees and butterflies, its silvery foliage is popular with gardeners and horticulturists.