Artemisia pycnocephala

Sunset

Zones 4, 5, 7-9, 14-17, 19-24

Full

Moderate, Minimal

Sandhill Sage

Evergreen, Shrubs

ARTEMISIA

Several species are valuable for interesting leaf patterns and silvery gray or white aromatic foliage (flowers are generally insignificant). Most kinds are excellent in mixed borders, where their white or silvery leaves soften harsh reds and oranges and blend beautifully with blues, lavenders, and pinks. Provide good drainage. Cut nonwoody-stemmed perennials to ground in late fall to rejuvenate; prune back woody perennials and shrubs (into older wood if necessary) before first flush of spring growth. Divide perennials in spring or fall; propagate shrubs by cuttings.

Artemisia pycnocephala

Native to beaches of Northern California. This is a rounded, somewhat spreading plant to 2 1/2 ft. tall and 3 ft. wide. Erect stems are crowded with soft, silvery white or gray leaves divided into narrow lobes. When the spikes ofvery small yellow flowers open,remove them to keep plant compact. Replace every couple of years if plant becomes unkempt. ‘David’s Choice’ is a lovely selection that grows just 6–12 in. high and 1 1/2–2 ft. wide.