Artemisia lactifolia guizhou group

White Mugwort
Wormwood
Black Stemmed Artemisia

White Mugwort, Artemisia lactifolia is grown in China as a leafy vegetable and medicinal herb. Artemisia lactifolia guizhou group, is an uncommon selection of White Mugwort, differentiated by black green leaves and red-brown stems. This clumping shrub-like perennial typically grows 4’ to 5’ tall. In summer, sprays of creamy white flowers will bloom above the musk scented foliage base. The stiff stems do not need staking. The stocks can work as cuttings. Rust and powdery mildew are sometimes problems but White Mugwort has no serious insect or disease problems.

This is an exceptional perennial rarely found in nurseries. I have seen it backed by flowering 6’ tall Joe-Pye-Weed, Eupatorium atropurpurem. It also works well with Helenium, Anemone tomentosa “Robustissima,  Solidago rugosa “Fireworks” or “Crown of Rays”.

“Guizhou” should be planted with full sun in rich well drained soil. Water around 10 to 14 days as it prefers constant moisture. Try drip irrigation about the plant. Cut stems to the ground in fall once the foliage yellows. It is best divided in late fall. Zone 3-9