Silver Mound Artemisia Artemisia schmidtiana 'Nana'
ABOUT
Artemisia schmidtiana 'Nana', commonly known as Silver Mound, is a visually striking plant characterized by its fine, silky hairs which give the foliage a soft, cushiony appearance and an enchanting silver-gray hue. The leaves are finely divided, almost feather-like, contributing to the plant's overall fluffy texture. Its mounded form creates a gentle, undulating silhouette that can have a calming effect in a garden setting. In contrast to the soft appearance of the foliage, the Silver Mound produces small, yellowish flower heads that bloom in the summer. However, the flowers are not particularly showy and often go unnoticed due to their size and color, which blend into the background against the splendor of the silvery leaves. The plant has a tendency to spread, creating a carpet-like effect over the ground, and is renowned for its striking foliage rather than its floral display.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Silver Mound, Schmidt Wormwood, Dwarf Silver Mugwort, Nana Silver Mound.
Common names
Artemisia schmidtiana 'Nana'.
ToxicityTo humans
Silver Mound is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread documentation of toxicity or poisoning from this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and it is always advisable to refrain from ingesting plants not meant for consumption, as they could potentially cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Silver Mound is not commonly listed as toxic to pets. It is not known to cause serious poisonings in dogs, cats, or other animals. Nevertheless, the ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets due to the novelty and fiber content rather than specific toxicity. As with humans, individual pets may have different sensitivities or allergies, so it's important to observe your pet's reaction to new plants and discourage the ingestion of non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Silver
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal supplemental watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping or regions with low rainfall.
- Low Maintenance: This perennial plant requires minimal care, with no need for regular pruning or deadheading.
- Cold Hardy: It can withstand cold temperatures, making it a good choice for gardens in cooler climates.
- Attractive Foliage: Silver Mound, as it's commonly known, has soft, textured, silvery foliage that adds aesthetic contrast to the garden.
- Ground Cover: Its mounding habit makes it an effective ground cover, suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion.
- Deer Resistant: This plant is typically resistant to deer, making it suitable for gardens in areas with a deer presence.
- Attracts Pollinators: While excluding medical properties, it's worth noting that the plant can attract beneficial insects to the garden.
- Edging Plant: Its compact size and shape make it ideal for edging in garden beds or pathways.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides visual interest throughout the growing season and even adds texture to winter landscapes.
- Soil Adaptability: It can grow in a range of soil types provided they have good drainage.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aromatherapy: Silver Mound's leaves can be dried and used in sachets or bowls to provide a subtle, pleasant aroma in the home.
- Dye Production: The plant could potentially be used to create dyes for textiles, though this is not a common practice.
- Moth Repellent: When dried, the leaves of Silver Mound can be used in closets or drawers to deter moths in a natural way.
- Crafting: Stems and foliage can be used in floral arrangements or wreaths, either fresh or dried, for decorative purposes.
- Insectary Plant: Silver Mound can support beneficial insects, acting as a natural pest control by attracting predators of garden pests.
- Photography Prop: Photographers may use the plant as a backdrop or accent in garden photography due to its unique texture and color.
- Culinary Garnish: While not commonly eaten, the foliage can be used as a non-toxic garnish for culinary dishes.
- Soil Stabilization: Its low-growing, mat-forming habit makes Silver Mound suitable for preventing soil erosion in certain garden areas.
- Education: Silver Mound can be used in educational settings like schools and botanical gardens to teach about drought-tolerant plants.
- Adding Structure: The dense mounding habit provides structure and design to rock gardens or small-scale landscape models.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Silver Mound is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Silver Mound is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Artemisia plants are often considered symbolic of protection. This stems from the historical use of some species in herbal medicine to ward off evil spirits and disease.
- Healing: The genus Artemisia is named after Artemis, the Greek goddess of the wild and of healing, reflecting the plant's association with medicinal properties and its use in traditional remedies.
- Purity: With its silvery foliage and delicate appearance, 'Nana', also known as Silver Mound, is often associated with purity and cleansing. This aligns with the use of Artemisia plants in purification rituals.
- Dreams: Some species of Artemisia are thought to induce vivid dreams and are thus linked with the dream world. This symbolic meaning can extend to Silver Mound, suggesting a connection to the subconscious.
WaterSilver Mound should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Typically, you should water this plant every 7 to 10 days, depending on the climate and soil drainage. When watering, use approximately 1 gallon of water per plant to ensure that the moisture reaches the root zone. Overwatering can be detrimental to Silver Mound, so it is crucial to check the soil moisture before watering again.
LightSilver Mound thrives in full sun conditions, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers a location where it can enjoy unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, which promotes compact growth and prevents legginess.
TemperatureSilver Mound is hardy in zones 3 to 7 and can withstand temperatures down to about -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can tolerate high temperatures as long as it has good air circulation.
PruningPruning Silver Mound is necessary to maintain its compact shape and to encourage denser foliage. It is best pruned in the early spring before new growth begins. Trim back the plant by about one-third to prevent it from becoming too leggy. Pruning should be carried out annually to promote vigorous growth and an attractive habit.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSilver Mound Artemisia requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging between 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix can be achieved by combining garden soil, coarse sand, and peat to enhance drainage.
RepottingSilver Mound Artemisia is typically an outdoor plant and does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container or space in the garden.
Humidity & MistingSilver Mound Artemisia prefers a dry climate and does not require high humidity levels. It thrives in average to low humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use a well-draining pot with sunlight exposure.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny area with dry, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleArtemisia schmidtiana 'Nana', commonly known as Silver Mound Artemisia, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in late winter to early spring, with optimal germination temperatures between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. After germination, the plant enters a vegetative growth stage, forming a low, compact mound of feathery, silver-gray foliage that is soft to the touch and typically grows around 12 inches in height and spreads up to 18 inches wide. Throughout the spring and summer, the plant continues to grow and may produce small, inconspicuous yellowish flower heads that are often removed to maintain the attractive foliage. In the fall, growth slows as the plant prepares for winter dormancy, during which the above-ground parts may die back, especially in colder climates. The plant is a perennial, and it regrows from its root system the following spring, continuing its cycle. Over time, the plant may need division, which is done in early spring or late summer, to rejuvenate and propagate the clump.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Artemisia schmidtiana 'Nana', commonly known as Silver Mound, is typically propagated through division since it is a reliably successful method. To propagate Silver Mound by division, the process is usually carried out in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. Dividing involves carefully digging up the plant and gently separating the clump into smaller sections, making sure each new section has a portion of the root system. These sections are then replanted at the same soil level they were previously growing at, spaced appropriately depending on the desired density of planting. Watering the new divisions adequately will help them establish more quickly in their new locations. This straightforward method maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows gardeners to expand their display of Silver Mound or share the plant with others.
