Big Sagebrush
A Forest of Shrubs
Big sagebrush (Artemesia tridentata) is the most
prominent shrub in this region and plays a crucial
role in the desert ecosystem. It offers summer
shade and winter cover for numerous birds and
rodents. The denter leaves are an important
browse for mule deer and pronghorn
antelope, and they provide sage grouse with
70% of their diet. This shrub has adapted
to the desert's heat with small leaves
covered by silvery hairs that reflect the
sun's rays and reduce the flow of hot
air across its leaves.
Native Americans used big
sagebrush extensively. Its shaggy,
sinuous bark was stripped from the trunk
and wovn into baskets, sandals, and
clothing. The small leaves were used as
remedies for headaches, fever, and even
"diaper rash." Homesteaders searched for tall
stands of big sagebrush as an indicator of deep
fertile soil.
[Picture Captions]
Big sagebrush can
grow to 8 foot tall.
This shrub has adapted to the
desert's heat with small leaves
covered by silvery hairs. These
hairs reflect the sun's rays and slow
the flow of hot air across its leaves,
thereby reducing evaporation.
