Silver Wormwood

(Artemisia ludoviciana)

Silver Wormwood (Artemisia ludoviciana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Artemisia ludoviciana, commonly known as Silver Wormwood or Prairie Sage, is a herbaceous perennial with a somewhat shrubby and rhizomatous growth habit. It is native to a wide range of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, and grasslands across most of the United States, Canada, and northern Mexico. This plant typically reaches 1-3 feet in height and is characterized by its woolly gray or white foliage, which provides a striking contrast in the garden. The small, inconspicuous yellowish disc florets bloom from July to October, and while not showy, they add a subtle charm to the plant’s overall appearance.

Silver Wormwood is valued for its silvery foliage and is often used in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It can be used as a ground cover, in borders, or as a complement to other perennials in naturalistic plantings. However, gardeners should be aware that it can spread aggressively and may require management to prevent it from overtaking other plants. ’Valerie Finnis’ and ’Silver Queen’ are popular cultivars, appreciated for their more pronounced silver foliage and compact growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

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

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Prairies, open woodlands, and grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Cudweed Sagewort , Western Mugwort , Gray Sagewort , Louisiana Sagewort , Louisiana Wormwood , Louisiana-Sage , Prairie Sage

Scientific Names: Artemisia ludoviciana , Artemisia gnaphalioides , Artemisia gnaphalodes var. gnaphalodes , Artemisia ludoviciana f. ludoviciana , Artemisia ludoviciana subsp. typica , Artemisia ludoviciana var. gnaphalioides , Artemisia vulgaris subsp. gnaphalioides , Artemisia vulgaris var. gnaphalioides

GBIF Accepted Name: