Artemisia

For this specific species of wormwood (Artemisia lactiflora), choose a location that differs from places for common wormwoods. While most wormwoods love drought and scorching sun, this species requires moister and humus-rich soil.

Ideal placement is:

• Partial shade, where it will be protected from the midday heat.
• A place with morning or afternoon sun, if you can ensure enough moisture.
• Proximity to water features or beds with heavier, nutritious soil that does not dry out.

Plant the seedling where it will be protected from strong wind, which could break its tall stems.

As soon as you receive the seedling, proceed as follows so it does not suffer shock:

1. Check moisture: If the substrate in the pot is dry, water the plant immediately or immerse it (pot and all) in a bucket of water for a few minutes.
2. Acclimatization: Do not plant it immediately in direct sun. Leave it in the shade outside for 1-2 days to get used to outdoor temperatures and air flow.
3. Planting: Dig a hole twice as large as the pot, put a little compost at the bottom, insert the seedling so it is at the same depth as in the pot, and water thoroughly.

Like most plants of the genus Artemisia, this species also contains substances that can be mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities.

• Pets: Dogs and cats usually avoid the plant due to its specific scent and bitter taste. If they were to chew on it, it could cause digestive issues or vomiting.
• Humans: It is not intended for consumption (unlike Tarragon). It is an ornamental plant. Handling may cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, so we recommend using gloves.

Definitely yes! It is one of its greatest assets.

• Durability: It stays fresh in a vase for up to 7 days.
• Appearance: Its delicate white inflorescences (panicles) act as excellent "filler" material, similar to baby's breath, but with more robust greenery.
• Combinations: It looks wonderful in a bouquet with Dahlias, Roses, or Asters, where it forms a gentle contrast to large blooms.

The main pruning is done early in the spring (March/April).

• Cut off all of last year's dry stems low to the ground (approx. 5–10 cm above the surface).
• Pruning is not necessary during the growing season unless you want to shape the plant.
• After flowering (in autumn), you can remove the faded inflorescences if their appearance bothers you, but many gardeners leave them for winter effect.

Artemisia lactiflora is a robust perennial that can grow to a height of 120 to 160 cm.

Does it need support?

• It usually has strong stems and holds its shape itself (clumping growth).
• However, if you plant it in a windy spot or in a very shady position (where it might stretch towards the sun), it may require tying or a circular support so it does not splay under the weight of the flowers, especially after heavy rain.

White mugwort is a plant that blooms in late summer to autumn.

• Flowers usually appear from August to October.
• If you plant a strong seedling in the spring, you will likely see flowers in the very first year.
• The flowers are tiny, milky white, and arranged in rich panicles.

This species is relatively resistant, but two main problems may occur:

1. Aphids: Occasionally attack young shoots. Can be solved by rinsing with a strong stream of water or soap spray.
2. Powdery mildew (white mold on leaves): Paradoxically appears if the plant has dry roots but there is poor air circulation around the leaves. Prevention is sufficient watering to the roots (not on the leaves) and avoiding overcrowding.

No, you don't need to worry. Unlike some other mugwort species that spread via underground runners, Artemisia lactiflora grows in clumps.

Although the clump gets larger and more robust every year, the plant stays in its place and doesn't "travel" aggressively around the bed. It is a disciplined perennial.

The best way to get new plants from a mature clump is by division.

• When: Ideally early in spring (April), when new shoots are starting to sprout.
• How: Dig up the whole clump, divide it into several parts using a spade or a sharp knife (each part must have roots and eyes/shoots) and replant immediately in the new location. Don't forget to water thoroughly.

Watering is key for Artemisia lactiflora, especially in the first year after planting the seedling.

• Keep the soil constantly slightly moist, it should never dry out completely.
• In hot summer days, water abundantly, ideally early in the morning or in the evening.
• If the plant's leaves start to wilt, it is often a sign of lack of water (unlike silvery wormwoods, which dislike waterlogging).

Once the plant roots well (usually in the second year), it can handle shorter dry spells, but water is essential for abundant flowering.

Yes, Artemisia lactiflora is a fully frost-hardy perennial that overwinters without problems in our conditions.

Preparation for winter:

1. Do not cut the stems in autumn; leave them through the winter as natural protection for the root crown (plus they look nice when frosted in winter).
2. In autumn, you can mound a little compost or leaves around the plant as mulch.
3. Perform the cut only in early spring, removing all dry stems close to the ground to make room for new shoots.

Soil preparation is the basis for success. This wormwood needs:

• Nutritious soil: Incorporate mature compost or organic fertilizer into the ground before planting.
• Ability to hold moisture: Clay-loam soils are suitable, provided they are not permanently waterlogged (muddy soil could cause root rot).
• Reaction: The soil should be neutral to slightly acidic.

No, we do not recommend it. Although it belongs to the same genus as Tarragon or Wormwood (used in absinthe), Artemisia lactiflora is grown exclusively for ornamental purposes.

It does not have such a distinct culinary aroma and its constituent substances are not tested for safe food use. Enjoy it in a vase rather than on a plate.