perennial

Hairy Wormwood

The Story

Plant Bio

Artemisia capillaris, commonly known as Hairy Wormwood, is a perennial herb with finely divided, silvery-gray foliage and small, yellowish-green flowers that form airy clusters, giving it a delicate appearance.

This species is renowned for its drought tolerance and aromatic foliage, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance, ornamental, and medicinal gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Its silvery foliage adds a soft texture and visual interest to garden borders and rock gardens.

Drought tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and supports local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Prefers dry conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early fall – Late fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into well-draining soil in early spring
Keep soil moist until germination, about 2 weeks
Place in full sun for optimal growth
Water regularly during dry spells for first summer
Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring
Prune after flowering to maintain shape

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry periods 🌱
Prune to shape after flowering
Apply a light mulch in spring

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Avoid fertilizing late in the season
Don’t prune in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged borderDrought‑tolerant perennial bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum EchinaceaRussian Sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hairy Wormwood questions

What zones can Hairy Wormwood grow in?

Hairy 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 Hairy Wormwood deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Hairy Wormwood, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Hairy Wormwood bloom?

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

Does Hairy Wormwood need full sun?

Hairy Wormwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Hairy Wormwood drought tolerant?

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