Artemisia 
Flora Frost Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis'
| Leaf type | Foliage leaf |
| Winter hardness | Good (USDA-zone 5, 6) |
| Leaf, general shape | Elongate |
| Inflorescence | Capitulum (head) |
| Structure (tissues) | Herbaceous |
| soil pH requirement | Alkaline (pH > 7,5); Neutral (pH 6,5 - 7,5) |
| Light conditions | Sunny |
| Plant, growth type | Erect |
| Moisture requirements | Well-drained |
Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis', also known as Wormwood or Sage-Bush, is a popular perennial plant with attractive foliage. It is a hardy plant that can withstand cold winters, making it suitable for USDA zones 5 and 6.
The leaves of Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' are elongate in shape, giving them a unique and graceful appearance. The plant produces capitate inflorescences, also known as heads, which add an interesting dimension to its overall structure. The tissues of this plant are herbaceous, meaning they are soft and not woody.
In terms of soil pH requirements, Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' prefers alkaline soil with a pH greater than 7.5. However, it can also tolerate neutral soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. This versatility in soil pH makes it suitable for a wide range of garden environments.
When it comes to light conditions, this plant thrives in sunny locations. It requires full sun exposure to reach its full potential. As an erect-growing plant, Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' forms a compact and tidy clump, making it a great addition to borders or container gardens.
One important consideration for this plant is its moisture requirements. It prefers well-drained soil, meaning excess water should be able to drain away easily. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to monitor soil moisture levels and only water when necessary.
Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' is not only a visually appealing plant, but it also has some practical uses. It is often used in medicinal preparations and can be brewed into a tea to aid in digestion and relieve various ailments. Additionally, it is known for its aromatic qualities, with a scent that is often described as pleasant and soothing.
In conclusion, Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' is a versatile and hardy perennial plant with elongate foliage and capitate inflorescences. It thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. Its attractive appearance and practical uses make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
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| - | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 1 | - | - |