Silver mound (Artemisia schmidtiana)

Also known as: Silver mound artemisia, Dwarf schmidt wormwood, Sagebrush

Silver mound (Artemisia schmidtiana) is a perennial plant that grows from 25 to 36 cm tall. Its silver leaves provide a nice contrast in gardens. It is a resilient plant that is resistant to wildlife. Silver mound grows best in full sun to partial sun, and makes an attractive spreading border plant.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Silver mound

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm

Spread

35 cm

Leaf Color

Silver Gray Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow White

Images of Silver mound

Quickly Identify Silver mound

Identify this plant by its distinctive finely divided, feathery silver-gray foliage and its aromatic scent. The foliage maintains its color throughout the growing season.

Scientific Classification of Silver mound

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Mugworts

Species

Silver mound

Planting and Growing of Silver mound

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Silver mound?

Artemisia schmidtiana should be watered until the soil is evenly moist but not saturated. Using approximately 250 ml of water is sufficient. The principle is to ensure moisture without over-saturation, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Silver mound? ›

What should I do if my Silver mound is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Silver mound? ›

How to save an overwatered Silver mound? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Silver mound?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Artemisia schmidtiana flourishes under full to partial sun. Ideal sunlight availability maximizes photosynthetic efficiency, resulting in robust growth, healthy foliage, and enhanced ornamental value.

How much light does Artemisia schmidtiana need? ›

What's the best way to ensure Artemisia schmidtiana gets the right light? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Artemisia schmidtiana? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Silver mound?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Artemisia schmidtiana is between 65°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to perform photosynthesis efficiently and maintain healthy growth. Within this range, the plant will have optimal metabolic activities and develop its characteristic silver foliage most effectively.

What Soil is Best for Silver mound?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Artemisia schmidtiana thrives in well-draining soil, preventing the roots from becoming waterlogged and reducing the risk of root rot. This ensures the plant remains healthy and vigorous, maintaining vibrant and attractive foliage. While not a heavy feeder, this plant benefits from soil with moderate fertility. Nutrient-rich loam ensures the Artemisia develops lush growth without the necessity for frequent fertilization, aiding its maintenance. Slightly alkaline soils within its pH tolerance encourage optimal nutrient absorption for Artemisia schmidtiana, promoting thriving growth and resilience against pests and diseases. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Silver mound?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Artemisia schmidtiana, the general rule is to be conservative with the amount of fertilizer you use. A half-strength liquid fertilizer diluted in water is usually sufficient, and solid, slow-release fertilizers should be used sparingly to avoid over-fertilizing. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Silver mound?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Begin by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent disease. In early spring, cut back any dead or damaged stems to encourage fresh growth. Shape the plant by trimming the outermost stems back by about one-third. Be sure to trim evenly to maintain the mounding shape. In autumn, lightly prune to remove spent flower stalks and prepare the plant for winter. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Silver mound plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Gather seeds from mature Artemisia schmidtiana plants in early spring. Dry them thoroughly before storing them in a cool, dry place until ready to sow.

In spring, cut 4-6 inch healthy stems using pruning shears. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.

Lift clumps of Artemisia schmidtiana in spring. Separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots, and replant immediately in prepared soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Silver mound plant?

Repotting frequency: Once a year

Repot Artemisia schmidtiana when you see roots circling the bottom of the pot or growing through drainage holes. These signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to thrive.

Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent water-logging, which could lead to root rot. A breathable material like terracotta is ideal as it allows moisture to evaporate.

Opt for a well-drained sandy mix, ensuring it is light and airy. This type of soil improves drainage, preventing root rot, and facilitates the free movement of air around the roots, promoting healthy growth.