Santa Fe Botanical Garden

Common name: threadleaf sage, sand sagebrush

Family: Asteraceae (Aster)

Distribution: Central and Western United States, Northern Mexico

Habitat: Prairies, dunes

Hardiness: USDA Zone 4 (-30 to -20 °F)

Life form: Semi-evergreen shrub/sub-shrub

Occurrence in New Mexico: New Mexico native plant

Growing Conditions: A. filifolia is found in loose sandy soils in open prairies, dunes, and grasslands, at elevations from 4,000-6,000 feet. It is widespread in New Mexico and is often found growing among species of Yucca, Cactaceae, and Salvia dorrii. It is a useful plant for erosion control. It may self-sow in preferred conditions.

Description: Sand sagebrush grows 2-4 feet tall and wide. It is easily distinguished from other species by its narrow threadlike, faintly fragrant leaves. Shorter clusters of leaves often grown at the bases of the long leaves. The leaves, stems and bracts that surround the pale yellow flowers are covered with soft hairs, giving the plant a silvery color.