White sagebrush Artemisia ludoviciana 'Silver Queen'
ABOUT
The 'Silver Queen' is a variety of the White Sagebrush known for its strikingly attractive foliage. The plant showcases elegant leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped, exuding a silvery appearance due to their fine, soft, hairy texture. The leaves are arranged in a dense, mat-like structure, contributing to the plant’s lush, full-bodied presence in the garden. Over time, the White Sagebrush 'Silver Queen' will produce flowers that stand out against the foliage. These flowers are generally small, yellow or greenish-yellow, and they form in clusters on tall stalks that rise above the leaves in the late summer to early fall, adding a subtle contrast to the silvery-gray foliage that remains the highlight. The overall appearance of 'Silver Queen' is one that lends itself to providing a calming, serene visual interest, with its muted tones fitting well into a variety of garden settings. Its foliage, flowers, and growth habit combine to give it a soft, yet captivating presence.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Silver Queen Wormwood, Western Mugwort, White Sagebrush, Louisiana Wormwood, Silver King, Prairie Sage
Common names
Artemisia gnaphalodes, Artemisia ludoviciana subsp. albula, Artemisia ludoviciana subsp. candicans, Artemisia ludoviciana var. albula, Artemisia ludoviciana var. candicans, Artemisia ludoviciana var. latiloba, Artemisia ludoviciana var. mexicana, Artemisia ludoviciana var. mollis, Oligosporus ludovicianus.
ToxicityTo humans
White sagebrush is not commonly known to be toxic to humans when handled or ingested in small quantities. However, it's important for individuals to be cautious as some people might have allergic reactions or experience irritation when coming into contact with the plant. There is no widespread documentation of significant toxicity leading to serious poisoning from consuming white sagebrush. If substantial quantities were ingested, it might cause stomach upset or gastrointestinal discomfort, but typical, casual exposure is unlikely to result in serious consequences.
To pets
White sagebrush is not generally considered to be toxic to pets. However, as with any non-food plant, consuming large amounts can lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in animals. If a pet ingests a large amount of white sagebrush, it is wise to monitor the animal and consult a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms develop. Pets with a tendency to chew on plants should be observed to ensure they do not consume significant quantities, which can result in the aforementioned symptoms.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Silver
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Silver King Artemisia is highly tolerant of dry conditions, once established, requiring minimal watering.
- Low Maintenance: This plant typically needs little care, making it an easy choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its silvery foliage, it adds a unique color and texture to garden designs and landscapes.
- Pest Resistance: The plant is known to be resistant to most pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Disease Resistance: Silver King Artemisia is less prone to common garden diseases, ensuring a healthy garden with fewer issues.
- Soil Adaptability: It can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is not favored by deer, making it an excellent choice for areas where deer browsing can be a problem.
- Groundcover: It can serve as an effective groundcover, suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion.
- Attracts Pollinators: While not known primarily for flower production, it can attract beneficial insects to the garden.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Artemisia ludoviciana contains compounds that may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of various pathogens.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant has been used traditionally to reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in the treatment of conditions that cause swelling and pain.
- Antiseptic: It has been used topically as an antiseptic for minor cuts and wounds due to its potential germ-killing abilities.
- Digestive aid: The plant has been used traditionally to stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
- Aromatic therapy: The strong scent of the plant has been used in aromatherapy to help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
- Emmenagogue: Historically, Artemisia ludoviciana has been used to promote menstrual flow.
- Anthelmintic: It has been used traditionally to expel parasitic worms and other internal parasites.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artemisia ludoviciana 'Silver Queen', also known as White Sagebrush, can be used in floral arrangements for its attractive silver foliage which adds contrast and a touch of elegance.
- The silvery leaves of White Sagebrush are often used in dried flower crafts, maintaining their color and form long after drying.
- White Sagebrush can be planted as an effective ground cover due to its spreading habit and tolerance of poor soil conditions.
- This variety of Artemisia can be used as a natural dye, providing a source of green to yellow hues for textiles.
- In the garden, White Sagebrush serves as a companion plant, possibly deterring certain pests through its aromatic properties.
- The strong-scented leaves of White Sagebrush can be used to stuff sachets, which when placed in drawers and closets, impart a fresh, camphor-like fragrance to linens and clothing.
- It can be incorporated as a border plant in a moon garden, its light foliage reflecting the moonlight and creating a luminescent effect at night.
- Interested in bonsai? White Sagebrush can be trained into a bonsai form, offering an unconventional choice for enthusiasts looking for a challenge.
- The plant is sometimes used in ceremonies and rituals, where bundled branches are burned for their smoke which is believed to have cleansing qualities.
- Landscape artists might use White Sagebrush for xeriscaping, as it requires little water and thrives in arid conditions, making it ideal for sustainable gardening in drought-prone areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Western mugwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Western mugwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Like many species of Artemisia, the 'Silver Queen' is often associated with protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and negative energy.
- Healing: With its use in traditional medicine, this plant symbolizes healing and is believed to have curative properties for various ailments.
- Purification: It is thought to purify both the air and spirit, creating a clean and positive space.
- Psychic Powers: Sometimes connected to enhancing psychic abilities and aiding in the clarity of dreams.
- Love: Although not as common, sometimes the plant is used in love spells or is symbolic of love's journey, with its hardy and adaptive nature reflecting the resilience of love.
WaterWhite Sage, or Artemisia ludoviciana 'Silver Queen', prefers even moisture but can be drought-tolerant once established. To achieve an optimal watering schedule, give it a deep watering every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. During hotter seasons or in well-drained soil, more frequent watering may be necessary. The goal is to provide approximately one inch of water per session. Ensure adequate drainage is available to prevent waterlogged roots.
LightWhite Sage thrives best in full sun, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. This plant is well-suited for a sunny border, rock garden, or xeriscaped area, where it can fully benefit from bright conditions. Dappled light can be tolerated but may reduce the plant's vigor and density of foliage.
TemperatureWhite Sage is hardy and can survive in a temperature range from about 20°F to over 90°F. The plant prefers temperate conditions, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. Protection from extreme cold or frost is necessary, as temperatures below 20°F might cause damage to the plant.
PruningPruning White Sage maintains its shape and encourages new growth. Prune in the spring, cutting back up to one-third of the plant to stimulate bushier growth. Deadheading the spent flowers can also promote a second bloom. Keeping the plant tidy by removing dead or damaged stems can be done at any time of the year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite Sage ('Silver Queen') thrives best in well-draining soil that is lean to moderately fertile, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. The ideal soil mix for White Sage consists of loamy soil amended with sand or gravel for improved drainage. A mixture of two parts garden soil, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure should nurture and support its growth while ensuring it doesn't sit in moisture, which can lead to root rot.
RepottingWhite Sage ('Silver Queen') typically does not require frequent repotting and should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it has outgrown its current container. It is crucial to provide ample room for the roots to grow without letting the plant become too congested, which can impede its development.
Humidity & MistingWhite Sage ('Silver Queen') is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers a dry to average humidity environment. It does not require high humidity and can thrive in the arid conditions often found in its native habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid overwatering, minimal care needed.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, drought tolerant, minimal care.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleArtemisia ludoviciana 'Silver Queen,' commonly known as White Sagebrush, initiates its life cycle through seed germination occurring in spring or early summer. The seedlings establish themselves rapidly and develop into rosettes of silvery, lance-shaped leaves. As the plant enters its vegetative growth phase, it forms a bushy clump that can reach up to 2 to 3 feet in height and spread. During the summer to fall, it produces small, inconspicuous yellowish or brownish flowers that are wind-pollinated. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. In winter, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, while the root system remains alive, allowing the plant to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer
Artemisia ludoviciana 'Silver Queen', commonly known as White Sage, is often propagated through division, which is generally regarded as the most popular method for this perennial herb. The best time for dividing White Sage plants is in the spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. This allows the divided plants ample time to establish themselves during the growing season. To propagate by division, one should carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a good amount of the root ball intact. The clump should then be divided into smaller sections by either gently pulling apart the roots or using a sharp knife to cut through the root mass. Each section should have a healthy amount of roots and a few shoots. These divisions are then immediately replanted in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly to encourage establishment. Divisions should be spaced at least 18 inches (approximately 46 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth.
