perennial

Artemisia chamaemelifolia

The Story

Plant Bio

Artemisia chamaemelifolia is a compact, aromatic perennial with finely divided, silvery-gray foliage that forms dense mats. It produces small, yellowish flowers that are generally inconspicuous.

This species is valued for its drought tolerance and silvery foliage, making it an excellent ground cover and ornamental for xeriscapes and rock gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides silvery foliage that adds texture and color contrast in gardens.

Drought tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Supports insect populations and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Caucasus to Iran

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested in large quantities

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
Mist cuttings with water regularly during rooting
Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth
Water sparingly once established, about once a week
Divide clumps every 2–3 years in early spring
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering for best results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly during drought periods 🌱
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
Fertilize lightly in early spring

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Neglect pruning, leading to leggy growth ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery-gray border plantDrought-tolerant groundcoverTextural accent in xeriscapes

Companion Plants

Lavender SantolinaRussian sage SedumYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Artemisia chamaemelifolia questions

What zones can Artemisia chamaemelifolia grow in?

Artemisia chamaemelifolia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Artemisia chamaemelifolia deer resistant?

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

When does Artemisia chamaemelifolia bloom?

Artemisia chamaemelifolia typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Artemisia chamaemelifolia need full sun?

Artemisia chamaemelifolia does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Artemisia chamaemelifolia drought tolerant?

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