Native across much of western North America, white sagebrush is one of those plants gardeners discover through other plants. Placed beside a deep purple salvia or a burgundy-leafed shrub, its silver-gray foliage suddenly reveals itself as essential rather than merely decorative. It grows 2 to 3 feet tall in upright, spreading clumps, with aromatic leaves that carry the dry, dusty fragrance of the western plains. The cultivar 'Silver King' is the more restrained form and the one worth seeking out — it spreads by rhizomes but with less of the colonizing ambition that makes the straight species a commitment.

Full sun and excellent drainage are the essentials here; even moderately moist soil will bring root rot. Foliage can become untidy and flopping in summer heat, particularly in humid climates — cutting it back hard at that point encourages fresh, upright growth. Propagate by division in late summer or early fall. It is best used as a bold foliage accent rather than a structural plant, and it repays being paired with plants of greater permanence. Deer leave it alone, which in many gardens is recommendation enough.