Sea Wormwood
artemisia maritima
Also known as: ["Common Wormwood","Coastal Wormwood"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to coastal regions, known for its silvery-gray foliage and aromatic properties.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia maritima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or dry, sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, as it prefers dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily). Tolerates coastal conditions with strong light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; suitable for coastal or open garden placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; coastal exposure is ideal.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize drought tolerance.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–8.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay; maintain pH balance.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Hardy to cold but sensitive to extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid intense summer heat; ensure good drainage in cold.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if at all, due to its tolerance of poor soils
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize only during active growth; skip winter feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage new shoots.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring extra 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root crowding; use fresh soil; improve drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may become dormant in freezing temperatures; roots can rot in poorly drained cold soil.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; provide winter mulch in colder zones; protect from frost if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering cautiously; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly in spring and summer. Avoid feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Artemisia maritima. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances, which may require immediate veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Artemisia maritima can lead to toxicosis, affecting the digestive and neurological systems. The plant's compounds may cause irritation and inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicArtemisia maritima contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's active constituents may interfere with normal metabolic processes, leading to adverse effects on the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia maritima edible?
A: While it has historical medicinal uses, it is not typically consumed as a culinary herb due to its bitter taste and potential toxicity.
Q: How does Artemisia maritima grow?
A: It thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and full sun, making it ideal for coastal gardens.
Q: Does Artemisia maritima attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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