A low growing species Artemisia stelleriana is commonly called the ‘Beach Wormwood’.
Grown for the very attractive silvery grey to white foliage this makes a great ground cover plant for a sunny position.
The common name of Beach Wormwood comes from its ability to grow in coastal conditions. It tolerates salt as well as light frosts.
Excellent when planted in the general garden border, near the front. Also suited for mass planting as a ground cover plant.
How to Grow Artemisia stelleriana – Basic Care
Sun / Light: Best in full sun. Tolerates light shade but foliage colour & density is best in sun.
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil — sandy or gravelly soils ideal. Humus-rich, free-draining soil will suit it. Heavy, poorly-drained soils may cause decline.
Moisture / Water: Tolerant of dry conditions once established; avoid waterlogged conditions, especially in winter.
Hardiness: Quite hardy — some sources list hardiness zones down to Zone 3 (very cold) for cultivars like ‘Silver Brocade’.
Maintenance / Pruning:
- Prune lightly during the growing season if needed to maintain shape.
- Avoid heavy pruning just before winter.
- An light prune in early-spring or midsummer will help encourage fresh growth and keep the mat compact (especially for low-mounding cultivars).
Varieties
A number of forms are available, however, very similar in our eyes.
- Silver Brocade
- Broughton Silver
- Mori’s Strain
- Mori’s Form
Propagation Summary
- By seed: Sow in well-draining medium; pre-treat seeds (soak / stratify) for better germination.
- By division: Divide mature clumps in spring or autumn — an easy and reliable method.
- By cuttings: Take semi-ripe or soft-wood cuttings in spring/early summer; root in sandy or well-draining compost.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Artemisia stelleriana
- Common Names – Beach Wormwood, Hoary Mugwort.
- Climate – Temperate climates to Cool Temperate.
- Soil Humus – Humus rich well drained soils.
- Position – Part shade, to full sun.
- Frost tolerant – Yes
- Height – To 15 cms
- Spread – To 45 cms
- Foliage – Silvery white to grey foliage, deeply divided
- Flowers – Insignificant, although they do appear on tall stems.
- Flowering period – Spring to summer.
- Growth Rate – Medium to Slow
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