Pacific Sagewort (Artemisia campestris ssp. pacifica) is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial herbaceous plant native to coastal regions of North America. This species thrives in a variety of open habitats, including coastal bluffs, dunes, grasslands, and open woodlands. Pacific Sagewort is well adapted to dry, well-drained soils and can play a crucial role in stabilizing sandy and rocky landscapes. Its finely divided, silvery foliage and subtle greenish-yellow flower clusters provide year-round texture and ecological value to natural areas.
This species is an important component of coastal native plant communities, supporting a diverse range of pollinators and insects. While its flowers are primarily wind-pollinated, it serves as a host plant for various moth and butterfly larvae, providing essential habitat for these species. Pacific Sagewort also offers shelter for small wildlife and plays a role in erosion control, particularly in disturbed or degraded landscapes where it helps restore soil stability.
Pacific Sagewort thrives in full sun, but tolerates partial shade, and prefers well-drained sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. It is well adapted to dry conditions and requires little water once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. Seeds require cold stratification to break dormancy and should be sown in the fall or early spring for best germination.
Pacific Sagewort - Artemisia campestris ssp. pacifica
Scientific Name Artemisia campestris ssp. pacifica Habitat Coastal bluffs, dunes, grasslands USDA Zone 3 - 8 Native Region Western North America Phenology Perennial Height 12 - 36" Light Requirement Full Sun - Partial Shade Water Requirement Low - Moderate Soil Type Sandy, Loamy, or Rocky Germination Time 30 days cold treatment, 14-30 days warm Difficulty ⸙⸙ Planting Season Fall or Early Spring Bloom Season Late Summer - Early Fall Pollinators Bees, Butterflies, and Moths