Variegated Mugwort 'Oriental Limelight' (Artemisia vulgaris): Bold Foliage for Containers

Overview

'Oriental Limelight' is a striking variegated cultivar of common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), selected for its creamy-yellow splashed and sectored foliage. Unlike the aggressive species, this cultivar is slower-spreading and grown primarily for its bold, luminous leaves in containers and contained beds.

Botanical Description

Upright, rhizomatous perennial 60–90 cm tall. Leaves are deeply lobed, gray-green with irregular creamy-yellow margins, sectors, and streaks. Stems are reddish. Flowers are insignificant, greenish, in panicles (often removed to maintain foliage quality). The variegation is most vivid in spring and fall.

Taxonomy

Family:	Asteraceae (ass-ter-AY-see-ee)
Genus:	Artemisia (ar-te-MIZ-ee-uh)
Species:	vulgaris (vul-GAIR-iss)
Cultivar:	'Oriental Limelight' (PP12788)
Hybridizer:	Harnett
Introduced:	2000

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to part shade; best variegation with some sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, average to poor; tolerates drought.
• Water: Low to moderate.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9.

Garden Uses

Excellent in containers where spread is restricted. Brightens shaded corners. Combine with purple foliage (heuchera, sweet potato vine) or blue flowers. In beds, use root barriers or plant in poor, dry soil to limit vigor.

Cautions

Invasive potential: The species A. vulgaris is a noxious weed in many areas, spreading aggressively by rhizomes and seed. 'Oriental Limelight' is less vigorous but can revert to solid green. Remove any non-variegated shoots promptly. Do not plant near natural areas. Many states restrict Artemisia vulgaris.