Crossostephium is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The only species is Crossostephium chinense native to parts of Japan, Taiwan, Guangdong, Indochina, Peninsular Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Chinese wormwood is highly resistant to disease and typically isn’t susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens usually don’t require pruning; however, smaller plants should be trimmed after flowering. Chinese wormwood is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and doesn’t demand much gardening experience.
How to keep Crossostephium Chinense.
Light
Chinese wormwood prefers exposure to sunlight for most of the day. This inclination toward light helps its best growth and overall vigor. Environments that replicate this abundance of light, like its native habitats, are ideal. Too much or too little sunlight can result in subpar development.
Water
Chinese wormwood, which originally comes from rocky coastlines, thrives in environments with moderate moisture. It typically grows outdoors and requires weekly watering. During its active growth season, it benefits from rainwater and shows resilience to dry spells. However, it still needs a careful balance of hydration and proper drainage.
Temperature
Chinese wormwood adapts well to temperature, tolerating high heat and wide temperature swings. In hot conditions, attention should be paid to watering and providing suitable shade to avoid sunburn. Its tolerance for low temperatures, however, is relatively weak; it can endure some cold, but very low temperatures can cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Chinese wormwood in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts overall health, producing vigorous growth, increased tolerance of harsh conditions, and improved resistance to pests and diseases. Keep to a consistent fertilization routine for your Chinese wormwood to maintain foliage that is vibrant, deeply colored, and lush in appearance.
Pruning
To ensure the healthy growth of Chinese wormwood, prune it annually from early to late winter. This helps maintain a dense, well-shaped plant. Be sure to remove any damaged branches, using clean and sharp tools to prevent disease. Pruning not only enhances the plant's appearance but also improves air circulation and reduces the risk of pests. This promotes optimal regrowth and overall plant health.
Pot & Repot
Repot Chinese wormwood every 2 to 3 years in the spring, using a slightly larger pot each time. Ensure the plant receives plenty of light and be careful not to overwater it after repotting to promote optimal recovery. To support the plant's moderate growth and health, use well-draining soil, as it is essential for its development.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Crossostephium
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-12
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 40 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, Philippines, Laos, China