Coastal Wormwood
artemisia tilesii
Also known as: ["Seaside Mugwort","Arctic Wormwood"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to coastal regions of the Arctic and subarctic, characterized by its silvery-gray foliage and aromatic scent.
Benefits & Perks
["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 tilesii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cold climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Cool to cold tolerant (15–25°C ideal); prefers cooler nights (5–10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain good air flow.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Use half-strength fertilizer; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when temperatures are moderate.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (18–22°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; thin out crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushiness; promote airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for soil refreshment.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. 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 or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Artemisia tilesii tolerates cold but may experience slowed growth or leaf drop in extreme frost.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid feeding in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation or allergic reactions if they ingest Artemisia tilesii. The plant's compounds can cause mild discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Artemisia tilesii may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's aromatic compounds and potential allergens. Symptoms are typically transient but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArtemisia tilesii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's essential oils and secondary metabolites may irritate the digestive tract upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia tilesii edible?
A: While some Artemisia species have culinary uses, A. tilesii is not commonly consumed and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: Does Artemisia tilesii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Q: How does Artemisia tilesii tolerate cold?
A: It is highly cold-hardy and thrives in Arctic and subarctic climates, making it suitable for cold regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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