perennial

Versicolor Wormwood

Artemisia versicolor

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Dry to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Siberia, Central Asia, China

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Artemisia versicolor is a perennial shrub known for its aromatic, finely divided gray-green foliage and clusters of small, yellowish flowers that create a soft, silvery appearance in the garden. This species is valued for its drought tolerance and ornamental foliage, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance, xeriscape planting with a subtle, textured visual effect.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The silvery foliage adds texture and color contrast to gardens.

Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and supports local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Mist lightly until established, about 2 weeks.
Ensure full sun exposure for best growth.
Water sparingly after establishment, about once a week.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly to prevent root rot 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the plant
Apply a light mulch to retain moisture

Don't

Overwater during winter ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization
Don’t prune in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery‑foliaged borderDrought‑tolerant garden bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Sage Sedum Yarrow Russian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Versicolor Wormwood questions

What zones can Versicolor Wormwood grow in?

Versicolor Wormwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Versicolor Wormwood deer resistant?

Yes — Versicolor Wormwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Versicolor Wormwood bloom?

Versicolor Wormwood typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Versicolor Wormwood need full sun?

Versicolor Wormwood does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Versicolor Wormwood drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Versicolor Wormwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.