Which leaf trait is associated with Big sagebrush?

• A. Leaves are gray-green and covered with fine silvery white hairs
• B. Leaves are bright red
• C. Leaves are about the size of a coin
• D. Leaves are in opposite pairs

Answer: (A)

Big sagebrush is identified by its gray-green leaves that are covered with fine silvery white hairs. This hairiness and color come from a dense canopy of tiny hairs that reflect sunlight and help reduce water loss in the hot, dry sagebrush habitat. That combination of color and texture is a distinctive field cue for recognizing this plant. The other traits don’t fit: leaves aren’t red; they aren’t coin-sized—sagebrush leaves are typically smaller and more slender; and the leaves aren’t in opposite pairs, but are arranged alternately along the stem.