Gmelin’s Wormwood: A Hardy Non-Native Ground Cover for Challenging Sites
If you’re looking for a tough-as-nails plant that laughs in the face of drought and poor soil, Gmelin’s wormwood (Artemisia gmelinii) might catch your attention. This unassuming little shrub has quietly made its way from the steppes of Asia to a few spots in North America, bringing with it a no-fuss attitude and silvery charm.
What Exactly Is Gmelin’s Wormwood?
Gmelin’s wormwood is a low-growing shrub that typically stays under 1.5 feet tall and rarely exceeds 3 feet at maturity. Despite being listed as both annual and perennial (botanical databases can be quirky like that!), this plant tends to behave more like a short-lived perennial in most growing conditions. It’s also known by the synonym Artemisia sacrorum, which you might encounter in older gardening references.
Where Does It Come From and Where Can You Find It?
Originally hailing from northern Asia, particularly the vast expanses of Siberia and Mongolia, this hardy little plant has adapted to life far from home. In the United States, it’s established itself as a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild. Currently, it’s been documented growing in Ohio, though it may be present in other areas as well.
The Good, The Bad, and The Practical
Let’s be honest about what you’re getting with Gmelin’s wormwood. Since it’s not native to North America, it won’t provide the same ecological benefits as indigenous plants. However, if you’re dealing with a particularly challenging site where native options have failed, this tough customer might be worth considering.
The Appeal:
- Extremely drought tolerant once established
- Attractive silvery-gray foliage that adds texture to the garden
- Small yellowish flower heads that attract some beneficial insects
- Thrives in poor, well-drained soils where other plants struggle
- Low maintenance requirements
The Considerations:
- Non-native status means limited wildlife benefits
- May self-seed and spread in favorable conditions
- Better native alternatives exist for most situations
Growing Gmelin’s Wormwood Successfully
If you decide to give this plant a try, you’ll find it refreshingly easy to please. Gmelin’s wormwood thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-7, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Full sun exposure
- Well-drained soils (it actually prefers poor to average soil)
- Minimal water once established
- Good air circulation
Planting and Care Tips:
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart
- Water regularly the first year to establish roots
- Avoid overwatering or rich, fertile soils
- Pruning is rarely necessary
- Watch for self-seeding and remove unwanted seedlings
Where Gmelin’s Wormwood Shines
This plant excels in specialized garden situations where its drought tolerance and compact size are assets. Consider it for rock gardens, xeriscape designs, or naturalized areas where you need something that can handle neglect. It works well as a ground cover in challenging spots or as part of a mixed planting with other drought-tolerant species.
Native Alternatives Worth Considering
Before settling on Gmelin’s wormwood, consider these native alternatives that offer similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems:
- Prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) – offers similar silvery foliage
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – excellent drought tolerance
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – attracts beneficial insects
- Purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea) – compact and drought-resistant
The Bottom Line
Gmelin’s wormwood isn’t going to be the star of your garden, but it might just be the reliable supporting player you need for that difficult spot. While native plants should always be your first choice for supporting local wildlife and ecosystems, sometimes practical gardening means finding plants that can thrive where others cannot. If you do choose to grow this non-native species, be mindful of its spreading potential and consider removing seedlings to prevent unwanted expansion.
Remember, successful gardening often means matching the right plant to the right place – and sometimes that means thinking outside the native plant box, while still being a responsible steward of your local environment.
