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Herbs - CulinaryHerbaceous Perennial

Artemisia abrotanum

southernwood

An erect sub-shrub to 1m, with very finely divided, pleasantly aromatic grey-green leaves, and small, nodding, dull yellow flowerheads in late summer

Other common names
boy's love
lad's love
see moremaiden's ruin
maid's love
maid's passion
medicinal wormwood
old man
Sabbath day posy
slovenwood
sweet Benjamin
tall wormwood
Synonyms
Artemisia paniculata
Artemisia procera Willd.

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Artemisia can be shrubs, perennials or annuals, evergreen or deciduous, with usually grey, aromatic, often divided foliage and rather insignificant flower-heads

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E, S and SC Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile well-drained soil in sun. Can die back in heavy, poorly-drained soil

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning Group 7 Cut back to the lowest, new shoots near the base in mid to late spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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