How To Order: Quantity options listed represent bulk weights. Examples: 1 = 1 lbs, 25 = 25 bs.
Common Name: Winterfat
Scientific Name: Krascheninnikovia lanata
Native / Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Winter forage
~Wildlife habitat restoration
~Revegetation of disturbed areas
Height: 1-3 feet
Colors: Silver green with wooly white seed heads
Flowering Season: Late summer
Elevation: Up to 10,000 feet
Soil Types: All soil textures, well drained
Tolerances: Moderate alkali and salt
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Minimum Precipitation: 5 – 8 inches
Lifecycle: Perennial
Planting Seed Rate: 6-9 lbs/acre
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 112,000 seeds/lb.
Optimal Planting Season: Fall
Planting Depth: 1/16 – 1/4 inch deep
Stratification Requirements: Cold for 2-4 months, pre-stratified
Category: Shrub
Description:
Krascheninnikovia lanata goes by several common names including Winterfat, white sage, winter-sage, feather-sage, sweet sage and lambstail. This resilient, long-lived shrub thrives in arid and semi-arid regions across the Western United States and Canada, ranging from sea level to elevations as high as 10,000 feet. It has the ability to grow in diverse soil textures and can be found predominantly on valley floors, as well as on slopes, ridges, and shallow rock outcrops. The plant shows moderate tolerance to alkali and salt, but it is sensitive to acidic conditions. Different ecotypes of Winterfat exhibit some variations. This plant is well-adapted to cold temperatures and can endure harsh winter conditions. Winterfat is highly sought after for its palatability and nutritional value, making it a favored forage option for both livestock and wildlife, especially during the fall and winter seasons. Winterfat plays a vital role in improving and restoring habitats for range and wildlife, particularly on winter ranges. Its fair tolerance to grazing makes it a valuable option for sustainable range management. Additionally, Winterfat is utilized for mine reclamation, roadside revegetation, and native landscaping, further highlighting its importance in environmental restoration efforts.
Old nomenclature: Ceratoides/Eurotia lanata.
Resources:
NRCS Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=KRLA2
NRCS Planting Guide: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/idpmcpg11464.pdf
Photo Credits: Jared Tarbell, Matt Lavin and Andrey Zharkikh
