Glacier Wormwood
artemisia glacialis
Also known as: ["Alpine Wormwood"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, characterized by its silvery-gray foliage and aromatic scent.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia glacialis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with 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
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5)
Use gritty mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Cool to moderate (50–70°F/10–21°C); prefers cooler nights.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temps; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
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: Late spring to early summer
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), bright indirect light
Medium
Perlite and peat mix or cactus soil
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
4–6 weeks for roots; 3–4 months to establish
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushiness; promote airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth
Pot Size
One size larger pot; no more than 2 inches wider than current pot
Method
Use fast-draining soil; trim roots if crowded; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; refresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; 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, leaf drop, or browning edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed monthly in spring/summer; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Artemisia glacialis. The plant's aromatic compounds can be irritating to the feline digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Artemisia glacialis may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils and secondary metabolites. While not highly toxic, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArtemisia glacialis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's essential oils may irritate the digestive tract if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia glacialis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Artemisia glacialis?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, requiring minimal watering once established.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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