Artemisia lactiflora Wall. ex DC.

Classification and Common Name

Artemisia lactiflora, commonly called white mugwort, is a flowering plant species in the daisy family that is native to western China.

Growth Habit and Size

It is a vigorous, clump-forming herbaceous perennial that grows up to 1.5 meters tall.

Flowering and Foliage

In summer and autumn, plumes of creamy-white flower heads develop above its dark green leaves.

Cultivation Distinction

This is the only species in the Artemisia genus that is cultivated equally for its flowers and its foliage.

Soil Preference

Plants grown in poor, dry soil are hardier and live longer than plants grown in heavy, damp soil.

Etymology

Its specific epithet lactiflora translates to "milk-white flowers".

Horticultural Award

This plant has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.