Absinth (Artemisia absinthium) ar-tem-EE-zsah ab-SIN-thee-um Genus:  Artemisia Artemisia absinthium is a woody perennial with finely cut, silvery-gray, aromatic foliage. Its small yellow flowers have little ornamental value. Wormwood is useful in beds, borders, and rock gardens, and it makes an excellent foil for bright colors and dark foliage. This plant needs excellent drainage. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Silver-gray, aromatic foliage. Has naturalized in some areas, including New England. All parts of the plant should be considered poisonous. Care:  Needs excellent drainage and full sun to grow well. Soil may be poor to moderately fertile. Deadhead to control self-seeding. Cut to the base in autumn, or shear in spring. Propagation:  Sow seed in a cold frame, or divide, in autumn or spring. Root greenwood cuttings or heel cuttings of side-shoots in early summer. Problems:  White rust, downy and powdery mildews, rusts, and fungal leaf and stem diseases are common.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower, Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Fragrant Foliage, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Yellow Foliage Color Silver/Grey Uses Beds and Borders Style Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials