Silver Mound
artemisia schmidtiana
Also known as: ["Japanese Wormwood","Silver Mound Artemisia"]
Overview
A compact, mound-forming perennial with finely dissected, silvery-gray foliage, native to Japan.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia schmidtiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; cut back by one-third to one-half of the plant's height.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or bright indirect light. Adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight gradually. Place in filtered light during peak summer. Outdoor placement is ideal if protected from harsh midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but avoid prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to shape the plant; remove old or leggy growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or browning in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArtemisia schmidtiana is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicArtemisia schmidtiana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicArtemisia schmidtiana is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and does not pose significant health risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Artemisia schmidtiana?
A: It can be propagated by division in early spring or by taking stem cuttings in late summer.
Q: Does Artemisia schmidtiana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small, inconspicuous flowers.
Q: Is Artemisia schmidtiana deer resistant?
A: Yes, its aromatic foliage makes it generally deer resistant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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