Downy Wormwood

(Artemisia pubescens)

Downy Wormwood (Artemisia pubescens)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 12" - 23"
High Temp. 68°F - 78°F
Low Temp. -26°F - -3°F

Summary

Artemisia pubescens, commonly known as Downy Wormwood or Pubescent Artemisia, is a perennial herb that is native to Asia, particularly found in grasslands, open forests, and forest margins. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). This plant is characterized by its silvery-green, downy foliage and its yellow, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, adding a subtle charm rather than a bold statement to the garden. The foliage is aromatic and can be used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb in some cultures.

Downy Wormwood is valued for its textured foliage and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a border plant. It is also used in traditional medicine. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers medium or fast-draining soils, including clay, loam, or sandy types. Gardeners should be aware that Artemisia species can spread aggressively by rhizomes and may spread in some conditions. To prevent this, it may be necessary to control its spread through regular maintenance.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, open forests, and forest margins in Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Pubescent Artemisia

Scientific Names: Artemisia pubescens, Artemisia campestris, Artemisia campestris subsp. pubescens, Artemisia campestris var. pubescens, Artemisia capillaris subsp. simplex, Artemisia commutata, Artemisia commutata f. commutata, Artemisia commutata f. compacta, Artemisia commutata f. elongata, Artemisia commutata subsp. commutata

GBIF Accepted Name: Artemisia pubescens