Common wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Also known as: Absinthe, Grand wormwood

The key ingredient in absinthe is grand wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). Historically, absinthe has been seen as dangerous because it contains thujone, a compound that was believed to trigger neurological issues like hallucinations, headaches, and convulsions. As a result, absinthe was banned in many countries. However, contemporary studies reveal that the thujone content in absinthe is typically too low to cause such effects. Grand wormwood itself is a resilient plant, often found in neglected areas, characterized by its silvery leaves and small yellow flowers during late summer.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Common wormwood

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

75 cm

Leaf Color

Silver Gray Green

Flower Size

6 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Common wormwood

Quickly Identify Common wormwood

Feathery silvery-gray foliage distinguishes common wormwood with a soft texture.

Tiny yellowish-green flowers in spherical clusters provide subtle contrast.

Distinct grey-green stem may be smooth or slightly hairy.

Leaves are ovate, finely divided, with silvery hairs emitting sage-like scent.

Fruit is a small, narrow cylindrical cypsela in muted brown tones.

Scientific Classification of Common wormwood

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Mugworts

Species

Common wormwood

Planting and Growing of Common wormwood

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Common wormwood?

When watering Artemisia absinthium, aim for about 250 milliliters per session. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It's crucial that the water reaches the root level but does not pool on the surface, as this plant prefers drier conditions.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Common wormwood? ›

What should I do if my Common wormwood is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Common wormwood? ›

How to save an overwatered Common wormwood? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Common wormwood?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Artemisia absinthium requires full to partial sunlight, ideally receiving six to eight hours of sun daily. This level of light ensures healthy growth and aromatic foliage.

What are the ideal lighting conditions for Artemisia absinthium? ›

Are there any solutions to provide Artemisia absinthium with ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does Artemisia absinthium gain from ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Common wormwood?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Artemisia absinthium thrives best in a mild climate with a temperature between 60°F and 75°F. This range supports optimal growth and helps in the production of healthy foliage. It’s essential for maintaining the plant's delicate balance of moisture and nutrient uptake, which can be hindered if the temperature strays too far from this range.

What Soil is Best for Common wormwood?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Artemisia absinthium thrives in well-drained soils, which prevent waterlogging and subsequent root rot. This condition helps the plant grow healthily without the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in soggy environments. This plant prefers moderate nutrient levels in the soil, avoiding both nutrient-poor and overly rich conditions. Balanced nutrient content ensures optimal growth and maintains the plant's aromatic and medicinal properties. Artemisia absinthium can tolerate low humidity in the soil, making it ideal for dry and semi-arid regions. This feature reduces chances of moisture-related soil pests affecting the plant's health.

How to Fertilize Common wormwood?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Artemisia absinthium, known for its silvery foliage and aromatic scent, requires moderate fertilization. Each application should consist of approximately 10-20 grams of balanced fertilizer per plant to ensure healthy growth without overwhelming the plant.

How to Prune Common wormwood?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by trimming the outermost shoots to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Aim for a rounded, compact shape by cutting above a leaf node, which stimulates new shoots. Cut older, woody stems back by a third to promote new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. This encourages younger, more vigorous stems to take the place of older ones. Every few years, perform a rejuvenation pruning by cutting back the plant to about 8 inches above the ground in early spring. This drastic pruning helps revitalize the plant and stimulate fresh, vigorous growth.

How to Propagate Common wormwood plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring,Late spring,Autumn,Early autumn

Sow the Artemisia absinthium seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Cover lightly with soil and keep moist. Provide warmth to encourage germination, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.

Select healthy stems from a mature plant and cut a section of about 4-6 inches. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root growth.

In early spring, divide the mature Artemisia plant by carefully separating the root ball into sections. Each section should have roots and shoots. Replant them promptly to ensure successful establishment.

How to Repot Common wormwood plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Artemisia absinthium needs repotting when its roots start protruding from the drainage holes or when growth appears stunted. This generally indicates that the plant has become root-bound and requires more room to thrive. The best time to repot is during the spring or early summer, allowing the plant to readjust during its active growing period.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring there is enough space for the roots to expand without feeling cramped. The pot should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which is crucial for this species. A clay or terracotta pot can be ideal as it also allows airflow, reducing root rot risk.

Opt for a well-draining soil mix that might consist of sand, perlite, or gravel combined with potting soil. This composition ensures excess water drains quickly, preventing root rot and mimicking the plant's natural rocky hillside habitat. The soil's texture should be gritty enough to support the plant’s root system.

Toxicity of Common wormwood

Is Common wormwood toxic to humans?

Common wormwood is harmful to humans when ingested in significant amounts, whether in its fresh form or, more frequently, as the alcoholic beverage absinthe. Every part of this plant is poisonous and has the potential to induce serious health complications. Symptoms associated with poisoning include memory loss, delirium, seizures, and neurological damage. Common wormwood can be found flourishing as a weed in disturbed environments or intentionally grown as an ornamental species in gardens. Incidents of poisoning are most likely to happen due to accidental or deliberate consumption, given that this plant is utilized as a component in absinthe.

Is Common wormwood toxic to cat?

Common wormwood is associated with a moderate level of toxicity for cats, particularly the flowers and leaves, which can be harmful if consumed. Ingestion of any part of common wormwood may lead to symptoms that suggest physical discomfort and potential illness in a cat. Although it is known to be toxic to felines, the specific compounds responsible for this toxicity remain unidentified. Cat guardians should remain alert, as even vague symptoms can warrant concern. If there is a suspicion of common wormwood poisoning, it is essential to seek prompt veterinary attention to safeguard the health of the affected cat.

Is Common wormwood toxic to dog?

Common wormwood is recognized as having a moderate level of toxicity to dogs. The primary risk of poisoning arises through ingestion of this plant. The toxic components are mainly found in its leaves and flowers, and when ingested, they can result in negative health consequences. Symptoms of toxicity in dogs may present as gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological complications, or various systemic reactions. It is essential for dog owners to keep this plant out of reach of their pets and to be vigilant for any signs of distress that may suggest poisoning. If a dog has consumed common wormwood, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible recovery for the affected animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.