Fringed Sage Artemisia frigida
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as fringed sage is a perennial herb that is well-adapted to arid environments. It sports a plethora of silvery-gray or greenish leaves that have a fine, feathery texture, giving the plant a delicate, fringed appearance. These leaves are small, narrow, and divided into thread-like lobes, which contributes to the overall soft, fluffy look of the foliage. Fringed sage produces tiny yellow flowers that are grouped together in clusters. The flowers are usually inconspicuous amidst the dense foliage. As the plant matures, its stems can become woody at the base, providing a sturdy structure for the soft upper plant parts. This species often forms low, spreading mounds, creating a ground cover effect wherever it grows. The plant's overall appearance is shaped by its habitat and growing conditions, but it generally maintains a bushy, compact form with a rich textual quality. Its silvery foliage is sometimes used in gardens for contrast with other plants or to provide a soft, muted element in the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Fringed Sage, Prairie Sagewort, Arctic Sage, Pasture Sage, Wild Wormwood, Prairie Sagebrush, Frigid Wormwood.
Common names
Artemisia frigida var. discolor, Artemisia frigida var. diversifolia, Artemisia frigida subsp. frigida, Artemisia frigida var. frigida, Oligosporus frigidus, Oligosporus frigidus var. discolor, Oligosporus frigidus var. diversifolius.
ToxicityTo humans
Fringed sagebrush (Artemisia frigida) is not typically known for its toxicity to humans. However, as with many plants, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals or gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities. It is not commonly reported as a poisonous plant, and no specific symptoms of poisoning are widely recognized. That being said, it's generally advisable to avoid ingesting plants not known to be safe for consumption due to the potential for unknown adverse effects.
To pets
Fringed sagebrush has not been widely reported to be toxic to pets. However, as with many plants, it could cause mild gastrointestinal upset if pets consume large quantities of the plant. In general, it's best to prevent pets from eating large amounts of any non-food plants to avoid possible stomach discomfort or an unexpected allergic reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion control: Artemisia frigida's root system helps bind the soil, reducing erosion.
- Drought resistance: It is highly resistant to drought, making it suitable for arid environments.
- Wildlife habitat: Provides shelter and food for various wildlife species.
- Pasture improvement: Used to rehabilitate overgrazed land and improve pasture quality.
- Decorative uses: Its silver-gray foliage is used in landscaping and ornamental arrangements.
- Soil improvement: Can help in restoring nutrient-deficient soils.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Artemisia frigida has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties, which help fight against bacterial and fungal infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation, which can aid in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions.
- Antioxidant: Compounds in Artemisia frigida might possess antioxidant effects, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and may support overall health.
- Hepatoprotective: There is some traditional use of Artemisia frigida that suggests it may have hepatoprotective effects, potentially helping to support liver health.
- Antispasmodic: Historically, Artemisia frigida might have been used to relieve spasms, particularly those related to digestive issues.
- Diuretic: The plant could have diuretic properties, which means it may help promote urine production and thus support kidney function.
- Carminative: It has been used in some traditional medicine systems to help relieve flatulence and soothe gastrointestinal upset.
- Antipyretic: In traditional practices, Artemisia frigida may have been used to reduce fever.
- Emmenagogue: There are historical references to its use to stimulate menstrual flow, but this use is not well-supported by modern evidence and should be approached with caution.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artemisia frigida, commonly known as fringed sage, can be used as a natural insect repellent due to its strong aromatic properties that many pests find unappealing.
- Fringed sage has been traditionally used in some cultures as a dye for textiles, providing a range of earthy tones to fabrics.
- The plant can be incorporated into landscaping as a drought-resistant ornamental, particularly in xeriscape gardens that require minimal water.
- Fringed sage may offer a natural food source for wildlife, as certain birds and mammals consume the seeds and leaves.
- The plant's fibrous stems have been used in making traditional baskets and other woven crafts by indigenous peoples.
- Foliage from the fringed sage can be used in potpourri mixes, adding a unique fragrance and texture to the blend.
- Due to its distinctive scent, fringed sage can be used as a natural deodorizer to freshen up spaces like closets or drawers.
- The branches and leaves can serve as a filler in floral arrangements, both fresh and dried, adding a rustic touch to bouquets.
- Aromatherapists may use the oil of fringed sage in creating custom scent profiles for relaxation and ambiance.
- Its dense and low-growing habit makes fringed sage a useful ground cover to prevent soil erosion in sandy or loose soil areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fringed Sage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fringed Sage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Artemisia frigida, commonly known as "fringed sage," is often associated with protective properties. In various cultures, this plant has been used to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
- Healing: The fringed sage has a history of being used in traditional medicine for its healing capabilities. It symbolizes the ability to soothe ailments and restore health.
- Purification: With its aromatic leaves, fringed sage is believed to purify spaces, objects, and individuals when burned as incense or smudge, cleansing them of negativity and bad luck.
- Wisdom: Due to its namesake association with Artemis, the Greek Goddess of the hunt and chastity, fringed sage represents wisdom and knowledge, especially in areas connected with the natural world and intuition.
- Spirituality: Fringed sage is often used in spiritual rituals and ceremonies to establish a deeper connection with the spiritual realm, symbolizing spiritual growth and enlightenment.
WaterFringed Sage, or Artemisia frigida, prefers dry to medium moisture levels and does not need frequent watering. It's best to water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically about once a week during its growing season, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Use deep, infrequent waterings to encourage a strong root system, providing roughly 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant each time you water. During the winter months, reduce watering significantly, as the plant enters dormancy and requires even less moisture.
LightFringed Sage thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for Fringed Sage would be an open area with clear exposure to the sun throughout the day, without any shade from trees or buildings. Too little light can lead to leggy growth and reduced vigor of the plant.
TemperatureFringed Sage is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can survive winter lows down to -30°F, but it grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. It's hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10, withstanding high temperatures up to around 100°F without significant stress as long as it's not combined with high humidity.
PruningPruning Fringed Sage is primarily for shaping and removing any dead or damaged stems to maintain a tidy appearance and promote new growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune lightly, cutting back the plant by no more than one-third of its size, and do this annually or biennially as needed to rejuvenate the plant.
CleaningNot needed
SoilFringed Sage thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of sand and loam; it prefers a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. Amend with organic matter to improve drainage and texture.
RepottingFringed Sage does not require frequent repotting; repot every 2-3 years or as needed when the plant becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingFringed Sage is tolerant of dry conditions and prefers low to moderate humidity levels, typical of its native arid habitats.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, low humidity, and good air circulation for Fringed Sage.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, use well-draining soil, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleFringed sage, or Artemisia frigida, begins its life as a seed that disperses from the parent plant, typically in late summer or fall. Upon finding suitable soil conditions and experiencing cold stratification over the winter, the seed germinates in the spring. As a perennial herb, its vegetative growth includes the development of a rosette of leaves in the first year, followed by the growth of silvery, pinnately divided foliage on branching stems in subsequent years. Fringed sage matures and flowers during the summer months, typically from July to September, producing yellow or grayish-yellow flowers that are wind-pollinated and attract various pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seed once more encased in small, dry fruits (achenes), ensuring the continuation of the species. The plant can also spread vegetatively through its underground rhizome, creating a clonal colony that may persist for many years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Fringed Sage, commonly known as Artemisia frigida, can be propagated most effectively through seed sowing. The best time to propagate Fringed Sage by seeds is in the spring, after the risk of frost has passed, ensuring that the soil is beginning to warm up. The seeds should be sown directly into a well-draining soil mix at a depth of about 1/8 inch (about 3 mm), since they require light to germinate. The surface of the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, maintaining humidity around the seeds to encourage germination. It's essential to provide the seeds with ample sunlight and to be patient, as the germination process can be somewhat slow, taking a few weeks to a couple of months. Once seedlings have emerged and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their final growing location, spaced at approximately 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart.
