Plant ID please

Orchid Lady

 I inherited the above plant when we moved into our house and have no idea what it is.  It spreads quite a lot and I usually cut it back during the summer as it grows too big.  It has a lovely scent, sort of herby, maybe like a type of wild herb but can't quite put my finger on exactly what the scent is.  

I need to know how to look after it properly so if anyone has any ideas it would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

Dovefromabove

Looks to me like Artemisia aka Lad's Love  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_abrotanum

 

it sounds to me as if you're treating it just right.  Cut it back and encourage it to bush out.  It also strikes quite easily from cuttings. 

nutcutlet

I think that's Artemesia abronatum,  Definitely artemesia, probably abronatum

nutcutlet

and definitely abronatum, thank you Dove.

Orchid Lady

Thanks Dove and Nut, it has never flowered though? Is there a variety that doesn't flower?

Orchid Lady

I've just had a look at other Artemesia and it looks like it might be Mugwort variety.

There are new shoots at the base and it has got quite woody at the bottom so didn't know whether to just prune it right back now?

nutcutlet

Maybe pruning stops it flowering Tracey. 

Orchid Lady

I think so Nut, just been reading up now I know what it is and on RHS website it says to prune now.  I think by me cutting it back in summer when it gets too big I've probably cut off the flower growth!!  

I am am going to get my shears out now and prune it and we will see if I go can get flowers in summer 

Thank you 

Orchid Lady

 Done, cut right back to new growth so will see what happens in the summer 

Thanks again x

nutcutlet

The flowers aren't much, the foliage is its big thing

Orchid Lady

The foliage is lovely in the summer and the smell is wonderful