A Soft, Feathery Cushion of Silver

Silver Mound Artemisia (Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound') is the classic, beloved mounding silver perennial, forming a soft, feathery cushion of finely dissected silvery foliage that begs to be touched. Tidy and non-spreading, it's perfect for edging, rock gardens, and the front of sunny borders, where its cool color sets off brighter blooms. Tough, drought-tolerant, and deer-resistant, it's an easy, dependable accent for Minnetonka, Lakeville, and Blaine gardens.

Landscape Uses

Use Silver Mound as edging, in rock gardens, and at the front of sunny borders, where its soft cushion of silver cools and unifies the planting. It pairs beautifully with sedum, salvia, and bright-flowered perennials.

Best Time to Plant

Plant in spring or early fall in a sunny, well-drained spot.

How to Plant

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill (avoid rich, heavy soil), water in, and mulch lightly. Good drainage is essential.

Watering

First Year: Water deeply once a week to establish, avoiding soggy soil.
After Year One: Little supplemental water needed; it's highly drought tolerant. Rich soil or overwatering causes it to flop open.
Drip Irrigation: Use sparingly; it thrives on the dry, lean side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Silver Mound flop open in the middle?
Usually from too-rich soil or too much water. Keep it lean and dry, and shear it back to refresh the mound.

Does it spread?
No, it stays a tidy, non-spreading mound, unlike some other artemisias.

Is it hardy in Minnesota?
Yes, it's a Zone 3 perennial, fully hardy statewide.

Is it deer resistant?
Yes, the aromatic silver foliage is reliably deer-resistant.

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Pair Silver Mound with sedum, salvia, and bright perennials, or our taller Garden Ghost artemisia for a low-water, deer-resistant border.