Artemisia pycnocephala - David's Choice

Soft, silvery, and beautifully low maintenance, Artemisia pycnocephala ‘David’s Choice’ is a California native foliage perennial with a refined coastal look. Its bright silver-gray leaves form a handsome, textural mound that brings year-round contrast to dry gardens, native plantings, sunny borders, and low-water landscapes.

Also known as beach sagewort, this hardy artemisia is excellent for pairing with California poppies, native sages, buckwheats, penstemons, yarrow, grasses, and other drought tolerant perennials. In summer, subtle yellow flowers add seasonal interest, but the real prize is the luminous foliage, which softens plantings and makes neighboring flower colors look even richer.

Plant Artemisia pycnocephala ‘David’s Choice’ in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil. It needs little water once established and is a strong choice for gardeners who want durable, beautiful foliage with minimal fuss. Trim as needed to keep it tidy. Explore more water-wise natives in our California Native Perennials collection.

The foliage mound is generally 6–12 inches tall and may spread 2–3 feet, so give it enough room to soften a border edge. Shearing away the comparatively modest flower stems keeps the silver cushion dense and prevents the center from becoming woody.