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Artemisia absinthium

Also Known As

Absinthe Wormwood

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 2'-3'
W: 2'-3'

planting zones

3a-11

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Artemisia absinthium plant details

Artemisia absinthium is a broadleaf semi-evergreen perennial with blue foliage. In summer yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees and beneficial insects making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Artemisia absinthium

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: asteraceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen blue
Mature size: 2 FT - 3 FT - wide, 2 FT - 3 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in summer
Uses: border plant, rock garden, toxic, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Artemisia absinthium

USDA Zones: 3a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, heat and humidity
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Mounding perennial herb with silvery grey foliage. Bitter leaves stimulate the appetite when chewed. Used as a moth repellent. Leaves contain thujone.

By: Accents for Home and Garden

Until very recently (2007) the alcoholic drink Absinthe was banned from being sold in the United States. This is the notorious plant from which its purported effects are derived! In fact, there is little evidence that any of its components have hallucinogenic properties except in exceedingly high doses (not recommended) & is important to the drink mostly as a flavoring. A greatly useful foliage accent, it’s good in dry, unamended soil with little water after it is established & the dissected silver leaves are lovely & deer proof. “Wormwood” hosts beneficial insects & its roots secrete weed-inhibitors. What a thoughtful plant! Growing to 3’ high & wide, it can be pruned back to the base for fresh growth.