Sagebrush and Wildflowers | Prints

Sagebrush is not a member of the sage family but the sunflower family. When attacked by insects, sagebrush can talk to each other by emitting a volatile organic compound that neighboring sagebrush plants can sense and then produce defensive chemicals to protect themselves. This beautiful plant blooms in late summer or early fall, typically flowering right before the first frost. The flowers rely on wind and freezing temperatures to ripen the seeds. The endangered greater sage-grouse relies on it for food. The plant is being diminished from overgrazing of livestock, wildfires, and invasive s...