Shimmery Silvers
Artemiias, known for their gray foliage, happily serve as enhancements to other, showier plants. They are, however splendid in their own right. Artemisia ‘Powis Castle’ has leaves patterned like filigree and a mounded growth habit, forming clumps to 2 feet. A ludoviciana ‘Silver King’ billows to 3 feet and attracts with willow like foliage. Some artemiasias have leaves resembling silver filaments, others have tiny plumes. The tone of these pewter foliage plants can change subtly with the light, glinting to silver in bright sun or paling to blush under clouds.
Most artemisias need to be cut back occasionally to retain a pleasing shape. All prefer full sun an wee-drained soil, and should be kept well watered during any prolonged dry periods. Plant in drifts around pastel flowers, especially pinks and yellows.
Ornamental grasses ae also a source of silver shimmer, heightened by movement in the wind. I grow a variety of Miscanthus sinensis and love to watch the play of light as it bends and sways. Technically, the blades are pale green with tapering white margins, but the effect is distinctly silver and definitely captivating.
So, for a bit of romance, a dash of shimmer, embroider your garden will lace. –Molly Dean
Photo courtesy: mobot, botanik.uni-karlsruhe,
