Artemisia absinthium, commonly known as common wormwood, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of Eurasia and Northern Africa, including rocky slopes, waste areas, and roadsides. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet (0.6 to 1.2 meters) with a similar spread. Wormwood has a distinctive appearance with its silvery-green foliage and deeply lobed leaves, which give it a feathery texture. From mid-summer to early fall, it produces small, pale yellow flowers that are not particularly showy but add to the plant’s overall texture.

Common wormwood is valued for its aromatic, silvery foliage and its historical use in flavoring spirits such as absinthe and vermouth. It is also known for its traditional medicinal properties, though it should be used with caution due to its potent active compounds. In gardens, it is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as a companion plant for its ability to repel certain pests. Wormwood thrives in full sun and requires well-drained, dry to medium-moisture soils, preferably with a high nitrogen content. It is drought-tolerant once established and generally low-maintenance. However, gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread aggressively and become invasive in some regions.CC BY-SA 4.0