Dusty Miller
artemisia stelleriana
Also known as: ["Beach Wormwood","Mugwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with silvery-gray, finely divided leaves and a bushy growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia stelleriana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–29 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or bright indirect light. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window; outdoors, provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus/succulent mix as a base; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid over-amending with peat.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to 0°F (-18°C) but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from frost in early spring/late fall; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
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 hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Shearing for shape, selective removal of old stems, and deadheading spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth. Best done in early spring before new growth emerges.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before flowering; remove dead growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
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. May not need frequent repotting due to its hardy nature.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then stop to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration, but is generally cold-hardy.
Solution: Provide winter protection in zones below its hardiness; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch in intense heat, especially with poor water management.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Artemisia stelleriana. The plant's essential oils can be irritating to feline digestive systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Artemisia stelleriana can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's aromatic compounds may cause irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArtemisia stelleriana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's essential oils may irritate the digestive tract upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia stelleriana deer resistant?
A: Yes, Artemisia stelleriana is generally deer resistant due to its aromatic foliage.
Q: How often should I water Artemisia stelleriana?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Artemisia stelleriana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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