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Description
Artemisia Stelleriana, commonly known as Old Woman or Dusty Miller, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the regions of Siberia, China, and Korea but has become popular in gardens worldwide due to its striking foliage and adaptability. The plant can grow up to 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width, forming a neat, bushy mound of silvery-grey leaves that have a soft, woolly texture. Artemisia Stelleriana produces small, yellow flowers in the summer, but they are insignificant and do not contribute much to its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Artemisia |
Appearance
Artemisia Stelleriana has distinct, lobed leaves that are covered in fine, white hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette, and as the plant matures, they form a dense, bushy mound. The leaves are oblong in shape, measuring 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide, with toothed edges. The plant does not produce many flowers, but when it does, they are small, yellow, and insignificant, measuring 0.25 inches in diameter. The leaves are the main attraction of Artemisia Stelleriana, providing a striking contrast to other plants in the garden.
Care Guide
Artemisia Stelleriana is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Artemisia Stelleriana:Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Artemisia Stelleriana does not require much fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer in the spring can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil but can grow in various soil types. Ensure that the soil is not too wet, as this can lead to root rot.Sunlight: Artemisia Stelleriana prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy if grown in too much shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Artemisia Stelleriana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, like any plant, it can fall victim to certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Artemisia Stelleriana:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can infest the plant. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.Diseases: The plant may develop root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. Powdery mildew can also occur in humid conditions. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Artemisia Stelleriana is native to Siberia, China, and Korea, where it grows in rocky, mountainous regions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures. The plant has become popular in gardens worldwide due to its adaptability to various growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Artemisia Stelleriana deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant due to its woolly texture, which makes it unpalatable to deer.
Q: Can Artemisia Stelleriana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are not too small.
Q: How often should I prune my Artemisia Stelleriana?
A: Prune the plant in the spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves. You can also pinch back the stems to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Can I propagate Artemisia Stelleriana?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division or stem cuttings in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Artemisia Stelleriana:
- Artemisia Ludoviciana
- Artemisia Absinthium
- Artemisia Silver Mound
- Artemisia Schmidtiana
References
- “Artemisia Stelleriana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b617.
- “Artemisia Stelleriana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21135/Artemisia-stelleriana/Details.
- “Artemisia Stelleriana.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-dusty-miller-plants-3269352.
