Artemisia lactiflora aka White Mugwort

Artemisia lactiflora is an easy-to-grow herbaceous perennial that adapts to various garden conditions. It tolerates a wide range of soil types from sandy to clay, requires no staking despite its height, and is naturally deer and rabbit resistant. Once established, it needs minimal attention beyond occasional deadheading to prevent self-seeding. Plants grown in poorer, drier soil tend to be longer-lived and more aromatic.

Artemisia lactiflora prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil - unlike most artemisias which thrive in dry conditions. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions as the plant can die back in heavy, poorly-drained soil. In cooler climates with adequate rainfall, supplemental watering may only be needed during extended dry spells.

Artemisia lactiflora is highly adaptable and grows well in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. The plant tolerates a wide pH range from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline. Rich, humus-amended soil produces the tallest plants, while those grown in poor, dry soil develop greater hardiness, longevity, and aromatic intensity. Avoid waterlogged sites.

Artemisia lactiflora grows best in full sun with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, unlike most artemisias, this species tolerates partial shade and may actually benefit from afternoon shade in the hottest climates to prevent leaf scorch. In shadier conditions, plants may produce fewer flowers and become leggy. For best flowering performance, choose a sunny location with good air circulation.

Artemisia lactiflora can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. Sow seeds on the surface from late winter to early summer in a greenhouse, keeping the compost moist. Division in spring or autumn is the easiest method - divide clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor. Basal cuttings taken in late spring also root readily.

Artemisia lactiflora is a tall, upright perennial typically reaching 1.2-1.5 meters (4-5 feet) in height with a spread of 0.5-0.9 meters (2-3 feet). Exceptional specimens can grow to 2 meters in ideal conditions. The plant forms gradually expanding clumps through rhizomatous growth. Despite its height, the sturdy stems usually don't require staking. Growth rate is slow initially, but established plants are vigorous and may self-seed prolifically.

Artemisia lactiflora blooms from August to October, producing elegant 30-45 cm (12-18 inch) terminal sprays of tiny creamy-white flowers. The flower plumes are reminiscent of astilbe and have a sweet fragrance attractive to butterflies. This is the only artemisia cultivated as much for its flowers as for its foliage. Seeds ripen from September to October. Deadheading spent flowers prevents prolific self-seeding but removes winter interest from the dried seed heads.

The Guizhou Group, introduced from Guizhou province in China during a 1985 Kew Gardens expedition, features distinctive dark purple to maroon-tinged stems and foliage, providing season-long color interest beyond the typical green-leaved form. 'Elfenbein' (synonym 'Ivory'), selected by German nurseryman Helmut Stade in 1991, offers particularly good resistance to powdery mildew. Both forms have received RHS recognition - the species holds an Award of Garden Merit.

Artemisia lactiflora is an outdoor garden plant hardy in USDA zones 4-8 (UK hardiness zone 4). Choose a sunny to partially shaded location with moist, well-drained soil. The plant is suitable for coastal gardens. Cut back to basal foliage after flowering in autumn. In colder zones, a winter mulch provides extra protection for the crown.

Cut back Artemisia lactiflora to basal foliage after flowering in autumn. Remove spent flower heads promptly to prevent prolific self-seeding throughout the garden. In spring, clear away any remaining dead growth as new shoots emerge. Divide overgrown clumps every 3-5 years to maintain plant vigor and prevent the center from becoming woody and unproductive. No summer pruning is required.

Artemisia lactiflora is susceptible to rust and powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions or when planted too closely. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues. The cultivar 'Elfenbein' offers improved powdery mildew resistance. On the positive side, the aromatic foliage is naturally deer and rabbit resistant, making it valuable in areas with browsing pressure. Aphids occasionally appear but rarely cause significant damage.

Artemisia lactiflora is a cold-hardy perennial tolerating winter temperatures down to -29°C (-20°F) in USDA zone 4. It thrives in temperate climates with distinct seasons. The plant dies back to the ground in winter and regrows from the rootstock each spring. In hot summer climates (zone 8), provide afternoon shade to prevent heat stress. Plants grown in poor, dry soil develop greater cold hardiness than those in rich, moist conditions.

Artemisia lactiflora has aromatic foliage typical of the genus, described as a 'bitter aromatic' scent. The creamy-white flower plumes also carry a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Plants grown in poor, dry soil develop more intense aromatic qualities than those grown in rich, moist conditions. The aromatic oils in the foliage contribute to its deer and rabbit resistance.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the leaves and flowering stems of Artemisia lactiflora are used as a bitter aromatic tonic, particularly for menstrual irregularities and liver disorders. The plant has documented emmenagogue (menstruation-stimulating) and general tonic properties. However, it should be used with caution as the plant may be toxic in large doses. Skin contact can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Always consult a qualified herbalist before medicinal use.

Artemisia lactiflora is primarily pollinated by insects, with its showy creamy-white flower plumes actively attracting butterflies and other pollinators. The flowers produce abundant pollen from August to October. Seeds ripen from September to October and the plant readily self-seeds if spent flowers are not removed. Unlike wind-pollinated artemisias, this species relies on insect visitors, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.

White Mugwort’s native range is E. Asia - China.

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.