Description
300 Seeds per pack
Wormwood (A.K.A. Absinth Sage, Absinth Sagewort)
Days to Maturity 365–700 Days; Days to Harvest 60–90 Days
Sun Requirements: Full sun; light afternoon shade can be beneficial in hot climates.
Botanical Name: (Artemisia absinthium)
Introduced to North America in the early 19th century for medicinal use, Wormwood soon spread past gardens and naturalized by 1841. Native to temperate regions of Europe, Western and Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, this upright, woody-based perennial grows 2–4′ tall and forms soft mounds of finely divided, silver-gray foliage.
In summer, it produces small, yellowish flowers in dense, nodding panicles. Best grown in full sun with, well-drained soils, it thrives in herb gardens, borders, and Mediterranean-style plantings. Aromatic and intensely bitter, only the leaves and flowers are used—fresh or dried—in sparing amounts to flavor absinthe, vermouth, and select culinary infusions.
Long valued for treating digestive complaints and expelling intestinal parasites, this herb is now noted for its possible anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions—though scientific validation remains limited.
Rich in antioxidants and volatile oils, including thujone and artemisinin, Wormwood is a valuable addition to the herb garden!
Medical Disclaimer: Wormwood contains thujone, a neurotoxic compound that can be harmful in large amounts or with prolonged use. While the leaves and flowers are technically edible and have culinary and medicinal history, they should only be used in very small quantities, and always with caution. Wormwood is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It is not safe for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with kidney disease or seizure disorders. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before any internal use, and proceed at your own risk. This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. We accept no liability for any use, misuse, or consequences resulting from the use of this plant or the information provided.
Planting Instructions for Wormwood Seeds
Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny outdoor location with well-drained soil—sandy, chalky, or loamy soils are ideal. For containers, use a pot at least 10″ wide with a gritty, fast-draining mix. Avoid wet, heavy soils that retain water. If planting in garden beds, ensure surrounding plants are spaced well away, as wormwood can inhibit their growth.
When to Plant:
Start wormwood seeds indoors 8–12 weeks before your last expected frost, or direct sow in early spring once frost has passed. Note: wormwood seeds have a very low germination rate and may take 2–4 weeks to sprout—sow more than needed. Late summer sowing is possible in mild climates.
How to Plant:
Wormwood seeds require light to germinate—press them into the soil surface without covering. Choose a well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with slightly alkaline pH. For indoor starts, sow in trays or pots and place in a bright area with indirect sunlight; for outdoor planting, select a sunny, well-drained site. Once seedlings develop their true leaves, begin hardening them off over 7–10 days—gradually introducing them to sunlight and outdoor conditions to avoid shock. Transplant outdoors only after the last expected frost, spacing them 18–36 inches apart.
Watering:
Moderate water needs. Keep soil lightly moist during germination and early growth. Once established, wormwood is drought-tolerant and rarely needs watering except during extended dry periods.
Fertilizing:
Apply compost before planting or a slow-release balanced fertilizer in spring. Over-fertilizing can reduce the strength and flavor of the leaves.
Pruning & Maintenance:
Prune in early spring or after flowering to shape plants and rejuvenate growth. Trim leggy growth and deadhead to avoid self-seeding and lodging. Plants may benefit from shearing back midsummer to promote regrowth.
Harvesting:
Harvest leaves and flowering tops in mid to late summer, just before full bloom, typically in the second year. Pick upper stems (often lighter green) and dry in small bundles in a dark, well-ventilated space.
Propagation:
Wormwood can be propagated by seed, cuttings, layering, division, or separation. It self-sows slowly, and seeds are known for their slow germination. For cuttings, take non-woody stems in summer, remove the lower leaves, and root them in moist, sandy soil under high humidity—covering with plastic can help retain moisture. Division is another reliable method: dig up and divide mature clumps in either spring or fall. Layering can also be done by pinning down a low-growing stem until it roots. Although wormwood is often short-lived, vegetative propagation makes it easy to renew each year.
Overwintering:
Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. In-ground plants can overwinter with mulch cover. Potted plants should be brought indoors or protected from freeze.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Wormwood?
Wormwood was brought to North America in the early 1800s for medicinal use and became naturalized by 1841. With roots in traditional European, Asian, and Middle Eastern medicine, it’s most famously known for its role in flavoring absinthe and vermouth.
Is Wormwood safe to use at home?
Wormwood is safe when used externally or in very small quantities for culinary or herbal purposes. However, due to the presence of thujone—a potentially neurotoxic compound—it should be used with extreme caution, and never by pregnant women, children, or those with certain medical conditions.
How do I start Wormwood seeds successfully?
Wormwood seeds are tiny and need light to sprout—don’t cover them with soil. Just press them gently onto the surface of moist, well-drained seed-starting mix. Start seeds indoors about 8–12 weeks before your last expected frost. Be patient: germination is slow and can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. Once seedlings have a few true leaves, harden them off gradually before planting outside after all danger of frost has passed.
Where should I plant Wormwood in my garden?
Choose a full sun spot with well-drained soil. Avoid placing it near other plants—Wormwood releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of it's neighbors. It’s perfect for borders or as a standalone herb in a dedicated space.
How much care does Wormwood need once established?
Wormwood is drought-tolerant and low maintenance once mature. Prune in early spring or after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Avoid overwatering and fertilizing, which can weaken its flavor and structure.
When and how do I harvest Wormwood?
Harvest leaves and flower tops just before the plant fully blooms, usually in its second summer. Clip upper stems and dry in small bundles in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area to preserve their potency.
Can I grow Wormwood in containers?
Yes, Wormwood does well in pots if you use a gritty, fast-draining soil mix and a container at least 10" wide. Make sure it gets full sun, and avoid overwatering. It’s an excellent choice for patios and balconies.
What are the most common uses for Wormwood, and is it safe around pets?
Wormwood is used to flavor spirits like absinthe, as well as in herbal teas and pest-repellent garden blends. However, it is toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets if ingested. If you have animals, consider planting it in fenced-off areas or elevated containers out of their reach.
Does Wormwood come back every year?
Yes, Wormwood is a perennial in USDA Zones 4–9. In colder climates, mulch plants in winter. In containers, bring them indoors or protect from freezing. Though sometimes short-lived, it can be renewed by cuttings, division, or layering.
Hazel Hardisty (verified owner) –
Excellent!