Artemisia ‘Silver Mound’

Artemisia Schmidtiana 'Silver Mound' (Wormwood)

Artemisia schmidtiana ‘Silver Mound’, commonly known as Wormwood, is a captivating perennial prized for its soft, silver-gray foliage. This low-growing, mounded plant forms a dense, cushion-like shape that introduces both texture and contrast to any garden setting. Its drought tolerance and adaptability make it a perfect addition to borders, rock gardens, xeriscapes, and more.

Growth and Hardiness

‘Silver Mound’ grows to a height of 10–12 inches with a spread of 12–18 inches, making it well-suited for small spaces, edging, or use as ground cover. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3–7, showcasing its adaptability to various climates. To ensure healthy growth, plant it in well-drained soil—sandy or loamy is preferred—and provide full sun to partial shade. Overly wet conditions can lead to legginess or root rot, so good drainage is essential for this perennial.

Foliage and Flowers

Although ‘Silver Mound’ may produce small yellow flowers in late summer, its true charm lies in its aromatic, feathery foliage. The silvery leaves not only add visual interest but also repel deer and rabbits, making it a practical choice for wildlife-prone areas. Furthermore, its foliage pairs elegantly with lavender, sedum, echinacea, and ornamental grasses, creating striking visual contrasts in garden designs.

Maintenance and Uses

To maintain its neat, rounded shape, shear back the foliage in mid-summer if the plant begins to sprawl or open up. Regular trimming encourages fresh growth and helps prevent legginess. It performs beautifully in mass plantings, containers, sensory gardens, or as a calming element in mixed perennial beds, where its silvery hues create a soothing visual balance.

Benefits and Resilience

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, ‘Silver Mound’ is highly valued for its low-maintenance nature. It withstands drought and heat once established, requires minimal watering, and thrives in poor soils. Its fragrant foliage adds sensory appeal while its adaptability makes it a reliable choice for novice and experienced gardeners alike.

With its silvery sheen, versatile growth habit, and resilience, Artemisia schmidtiana ‘Silver Mound’ is a must-have for any landscape. Whether used as an accent, filler, or ground cover, this perennial delivers exceptional value throughout the year.