Alpine Wormwood
artemisia umbelliformis
Also known as: ["Alpine Mugwort","False Mugwort"]
Overview
A small, aromatic, evergreen shrub native to alpine regions of Europe, known for its silver-gray foliage and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia umbelliformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with well-ventilated air. Adjust for intense summer sun by providing slight shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; provide bright light year-round; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when 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 or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased growth; shape plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining 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; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage; move indoors in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water carefully to avoid heat shock.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the compounds in Artemisia umbelliformis, particularly thujone. Ingestion can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological effects. Cats may be more susceptible due to their smaller size and unique metabolism.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild toxicity if they ingest significant amounts of Artemisia umbelliformis. The plant's compounds can cause gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects. Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArtemisia umbelliformis contains compounds such as thujone, which can be mildly toxic when ingested in significant quantities. The plant may cause gastrointestinal irritation and other mild symptoms. Physiologically, it can affect the central nervous system if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia umbelliformis safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Alpine Wormwood?
A: It has been traditionally used for digestive issues and as a natural remedy for colds and flu.
Q: How should I care for Artemisia umbelliformis?
A: Plant in well-drained soil, provide full sun to partial shade, and water sparingly as it is drought-tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
