Artemisia Garden Ghost™ Wormwood

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

1 Foot

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Low-growing Artemisia doesn’t get more compact or low maintenance than Garden Ghost™. Garden Ghost is an improved version of A. ‘Silver King’ and has much denser branching along with a wider, but still delicate, leaf shape. This plant is perfect for adding textural interest to a sunny garden border or a decorative container on a sunny patio or deck. The silvery color blends well with both cool and hot color palettes, and its low profile works well as an edging plant or as a deciduous ground cover. 

Artemisia Garden Ghost™ is virtually resistant to pests and diseases and needs little maintenance during the growing season. This shrubby perennial quickly establishes in the garden, becoming drought tolerant after one or two seasons of regular watering. The naturally mounding growth needs no staking or pruning to keep the plants looking fresh and healthy throughout the growing season. Plant Garden Ghost™ along a pathway or near a sunny seating area, where the lightly astringent fragrance of the leaves can be enjoyed. 

Artemisia Garden Ghost™ Care

Plant garden Ghost™ in full sun and in well-draining soil. Artemisia grows best in locations with loose, poor soils such as a rock garden or sandy slope. Amend heavy clay soils to increase drainage. Fertilize it once early in the summer as the new foliage emerges. Avoid heavy fertilizing or planting in shady locations, which will weaken growth. 

After the first hard frost, prune the spent top growth to within 6 inches of the soil. Mulching with arborist chips or shredded leaves will help insulate the roots in areas with cold winters. 

Artemisia growing in containers will also need a seasonal pruning to prepare for the winter months. If possible, move containers to a sheltered location out of the path of storms and drying winter winds. Place pots on bricks or pot feet to ensure good drainage during the winter months.  

Artemisia Garden Ghost™ Plant Spacing

In one season, Garden Ghost™ can reach 12-14 inches tall, with a 24-30 inch spread. To ensure proper air circulation, space this Artemisia 18-24 inches from other plants. A single plant will comfortably fit in a pot with at least a 10-inch diameter.