Powis Castle

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 2–3 feet
Spread: 3–6 feet
Flower Color: yellow (insignificant)
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Powis Castle (Artemisia × ‘Powis Castle’): Silvery, Aromatic Foliage for Desert Elegance

Powis Castle is a hardy, drought-tolerant shrub prized for its finely cut, silvery-gray foliage and soft, mounding form. While it produces small yellow flowers in late summer, the real appeal is in its aromatic leaves and ability to bring texture, contrast, and a cooling tone to hot-climate gardens.

Key Features of Powis Castle

• Striking Silvery Foliage: Feathery, fern-like leaves create a soft, shimmering effect in sunlight.
• Aromatic and Deer-Resistant: Leaves have a pleasant scent when brushed and naturally repel deer and many pests.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in the full sun and low-water conditions of Arizona landscapes.
• Versatile Design Element: Works well as a border plant, low hedge, or backdrop in mixed plantings.

Growing and Care Tips

Powis Castle is tough yet elegant, blending well in both formal and naturalistic settings.

Soil: Requires well-draining soil; thrives in sandy or rocky conditions. Avoid heavy clay or wet locations.
Water: Water regularly during establishment, then reduce to occasional deep watering. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilizer: Typically not needed. If growth is slow, apply a light, balanced fertilizer in spring.
Pruning: Prune back in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage dense new foliage.

Landscaping Uses

• Color Contrast: Silvery foliage pairs beautifully with bold greens, purples, or flowering perennials.
• Borders and Edging: Perfect for softening walkways, garden beds, and dry-stacked walls.
• Rock Gardens: Adds texture and brightness to xeriscaped designs.
• Containers: Can be grown in large pots for patios or entryways.

Summary

Powis Castle is a long-lived, low-maintenance shrub that offers beauty, resilience, and year-round interest. Its soft, silver foliage cools the landscape visually and thrives where water is scarce.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Powis Castle

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best color and growth; tolerates very light shade.
Soil: Fast-draining, sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Space 3–6 feet apart depending on desired density.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with soil surface. Avoid burying the base.
Support: Not needed—naturally forms a tidy, mounded habit.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting to settle roots.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Apply enough to soak the soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Fully established after 2–3 months of consistent watering and visible new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 14–21 days during hot, dry weather.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if rainfall is absent.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 12–18 inches from plant base to encourage outward root growth.
Flow Rate: 1-gallon-per-hour emitter recommended.
Number of Emitters: 1 per plant; add a second for mature specimens.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase to every 10–14 days in extreme summer heat; reduce to monthly or less in winter.

General Watering Tips for Powis Castle:

• Soil Check: Water when top 3 inches are dry.
• Avoid Overwatering: This plant prefers dry conditions; excess water can cause root or crown rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel or decomposed granite mulch to retain soil moisture without creating humidity around the base.