Artemisia arborescens aka Shrubby Mugwort

Taxonomy

Artemisia arborescens, also known as tree wormwood or Shrubby Mugwort, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, this evergreen perennial features masses of finely-divided aromatic silvery-white leaves and single-sided sprays of small yellow daisy-like flowers. It is cultivated for its foliage effects, but in colder temperate regions, it requires the protection of a wall. The specific epithet "arborescens" refers to its woody or tree-like nature. The cultivar 'Powis Castle' is a compact variety of A. arborescens that rarely flowers but has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It has a strong sweet smell, distinct from the typical A. arborescens. Believed to be a hybrid between A. arborescens and A. absinthium, it is likely a form from the Middle East where these two species intergrade. Its origin is unknown, but it was named after the garden at Powis Castle where it was propagated and sold to promote the National Trust gardens. Like other plants in the Artemisia genus, Artemisia arborescens yields essential oils that have been historically used for medicinal purposes. Its pharmacological properties are currently under investigation. Additionally, it has culinary uses and can be used as a substitute for or supplement to spearmint in Maghrebi mint tea during the winter. This plant requires regular watering to thrive and prefers long-lasting, direct light. It should be placed less than 1 foot away from a window. Well-draining soil is recommended, and repotting is necessary each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Shrubby Mugwort, Hedge Artemisia, Tree Wormwood

How to care for Shrubby Mugwort

Water

Shrubby Mugwort should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Shrubby Mugwort loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Shrubby Mugwort thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Tree Wormwood.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Shrubby Mugwort is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia