Naturally occurring in California, among other western states, Douglas Mugwort is best cultivated in natural gardens because of its variable and ‘wild’ appearance for much of the year. The herbaceous perennial is typically two to three feet in height by two to three feet in width. The plant is largely upright but can grow irregularly in many conditions. The leaf shape on the plant is highly variable. Foliage is a dark green on top and a silvery-gray below. Inconspicuous flowers develop from May to October. While the plant can reproduce from seed, it mainly propagates by rhizomes. These masses of rhizomes are specifically important to prevent erosion by stabilizing streambanks. This species of Artemisia is often used for revegetation or habitat restoration projects. . A diversity of California native birds forage its seeds and bees use its leaves as nesting material. Notably, California indigenous groups use this plant for various medicinal uses.
- Common Name:
- Douglas Mugwort
- Mature Height:
- 2-3'
- Mature Spread:
- 2-3'
- Exposure:
- Sun/Part Sun
- Growth:
- Winter Dormant
- Flower Color:
- Incon.
