Southernwood Artemisia abrotanum
ABOUT
Artemisia abrotanum, commonly known as Southernwood, is a perennial plant renowned for its aromatic quality. Southernwood possesses a shrub-like structure with many woody, branching stems that create a dense and bushy appearance. The foliage of the Southernwood is finely divided, feathery, and soft to the touch, exuding a strong, camphor-like fragrance when crushed or brushed against. The leaves are a grayish-green hue, lending a silvery sheen to the overall aspect of the plant. During its blooming period, Southernwood sprouts small, inconspicuous yellow flowers that cluster at the tips of its stems. These flowers are not typically grown for their ornamental value but may add a subtle visual interest to the plant's appearance. Southernwood has a presence in gardens primarily for its foliage and aromatic properties, its textured leaves being the primary feature of aesthetic and practical appeal. Its overall form can be described as upright and slightly spreading.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Southernwood, Lad's Love, Old Man, Boy's Love, Oldman Wormwood, Lover's Plant, Appleringie, Garderobe, Our Lord's Wood, Maid's Ruin, Garden Sagebrush, European Sage, Lemon Plant
Common names
Artemisia procera, Abrotanum officinale, Abrotanum vulgare, Santolina abrotanum.
ToxicityTo humans
Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum) is generally not considered highly toxic to humans, but it can cause adverse reactions if ingested in large quantities due to the presence of volatile oils and other compounds. It is important to note that it should not be consumed by pregnant women because it may stimulate the uterus. The symptoms of consuming a significant amount of Southernwood might include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in extreme cases, kidney or liver damage. However, accidental ingestion of small amounts typically does not lead to serious poisoning. Still, as with any medicinal plant, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
To pets
Southernwood is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets, but as with humans, it contains volatile oils and other compounds that can be irritating or harmful to animals if consumed in large amounts. Symptoms of ingesting Southernwood in pets could include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. In higher doses, more severe symptoms such as liver or kidney damage could occur. While it is unlikely that pets would choose to eat large quantities of this bitter-tasting plant, it is still advisable to prevent pets from ingesting it to avoid the potential for harm.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary uses: Artemisia abrotanum, commonly known as Southernwood, is used as a flavoring herb in cooking due to its lemony and slightly bittersweet aroma.
- Insect repellent: The plant's strong scent is effective in repelling moths and other insects, making it useful for protecting clothes and linens.
- Garden aesthetics: Southernwood’s delicate, feathery foliage and compact growth habit make it an attractive addition to mixed borders and ornamental gardens.
- Companion planting: When grown in vegetable gardens, Southernwood is said to enhance the growth of nearby plants and can help repel pests that may otherwise harm vegetables.
- Historical use in perfumery: The fragrant leaves have been traditionally used in sachets and potpourris to impart a pleasant scent to rooms and personal items.
- Crafting and decoration: The plant's silver-gray foliage and yellow flowers can be used in dried floral arrangements and crafts for decorative purposes.
- Soil improvement: Like many other Artemisia species, Southernwood may contribute to improving soil quality through its root system and leaf litter.
- Drought resistance: Southernwood is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Artemisia abrotanum has been considered for its potential antiseptic properties, useful in preventing the growth of microorganisms.
- Antispasmodic: The plant may possess antispasmodic properties, which could help to relieve muscle spasms or cramps.
- Anti-inflammatory: There is a belief that it can be used to reduce inflammation, although rigorous scientific evidence may be limited.
- Carminative: Traditional use suggests it can relieve flatulence or intestinal gas symptoms.
- Diaphoretic: Artemisia abrotanum is thought to promote sweating, which could be used traditionally to reduce fever.
- Emmenagogue: Historically, it has been used to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, potentially affecting menstruation.
- Stomachic: It was considered to have properties that could aid digestion or soothe stomach complaints.
- Tonic: Traditionally believed to have a general strengthening and invigorating effect on the body.
- Vermifuge: Artemisia abrotanum has been used to expel parasitic worms (helminths) or other internal parasites from the body.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a moth repellent: Artemisia abrotanum can be placed among clothes and linens to deter moths, offering a natural alternative to chemical repellents.
- Culinary flavoring: The leaves of Artemisia abrotanum, also known as Southernwood, have a bitter taste and can be used sparingly to impart flavor in some traditional European cuisines.
- Insect-repelling companion plant: When planted in the garden, Southernwood can help repel certain insect pests, thus protecting other plants without the use of pesticides.
- Decorative elements in bouquets: The feathery foliage of Southernwood can be used to add texture and a pleasant aroma to floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Herbal sachets and potpourris: Dried leaves of Artemisia abrotanum can be included in sachets and potpourris for a long-lasting fragrance.
- Plant dye: The plant can be used to produce a yellowish-green dye for textiles.
- Fragrant foliage for gardens: Southernwood has a strong, lemony scent that can be enjoyed simply by brushing against the plant or crushing the leaves, enhancing the sensory experience of a garden.
- Natural air freshener: Branches of Southernwood can be hung indoors to impart a fresh fragrance to the air.
- Fish bait aroma enhancer: The strong scent of the plant has been traditionally used to enhance the smell of bait for fishing.
- Livestock feed additive: The plant has been used historically to add to the feed of chickens to impart a bitter taste to parasites, making the chickens less palatable to them.
Interesting Facts
Feng Shui"Southernwood is not used in Feng Shui practice."
Zodiac Sign Compitability"Southernwood is not used in astrology practice."
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Artemisia abrotanum, commonly known as Southernwood, has been linked with protection rituals. It was traditionally used in warding off evil spirits and providing a shield against harm.
- Love and Affection: In some cultural folklore, Southernwood is associated with love and may be used in love sachets or to elicit affection when carried or used as an amulet.
- Healing and Health: This herb is also symbolic of healing due to its historical use in medicine for various ailments. It implies a wish for good health and well-being.
- Purification: Southernwood is believed to have cleansing properties, thus symbolizing purification. It has been used to cleanse a space of negative energy or to purify the body and mind.
- Fertility: The plant has had connotations of fertility and vitality, possibly due to its robust nature and once-believed medicinal properties that could aid in reproductive health.
- Luck: Carrying or planting Southernwood is sometimes thought to bring good luck or fortune, perhaps due to its strong and resilient nature as a plant.
WaterSouthernwood, the common name for Artemisia abrotanum, prefers dry to medium moisture and well-drained soil, so it's important not to overwater. Water the plant once every week or two, providing around one gallon of water each time, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. During the growing season, ensure that the top inch of soil dries out between watering sessions to prevent root rot. Cut back on watering in the winter when the plant is dormant, as it requires even less moisture during this time. Always avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightSouthernwood thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Although it tolerates partial shade, the plant will have denser growth and more aromatic foliage when provided with plenty of sunlight.
TemperatureSouthernwood is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but its ideal growing conditions are between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. It can tolerate high temperatures well, but during extremely hot weather, the plant may require additional watering to prevent stress.
PruningPruning Southernwood is mostly done to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. Prune lightly in early spring before new growth begins. Deadheading or cutting back the plant after flowering can also promote a second bloom. Pruning is usually done once a year, but dead or damaged stems can be removed at any time.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSouthernwood (Artemisia abrotanum) thrives in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or peat moss will provide the best soil structure and nutrient balance for the healthy growth of Southernwood.
RepottingSouthernwood does not require frequent repotting; repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container to promote healthy root growth and ensure sufficient room for development.
Humidity & MistingSouthernwood prefers a dry climate and does not require high humidity levels; it is quite tolerant of dry air and can thrive in typical household humidity conditions without the need for additional humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Southernwood in a sunny spot with good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant Southernwood in full sun, ensure good drainage, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSouthernwood (Artemisia abrotanum) begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in the soil and provided with the right conditions of light and moisture, will germinate and sprout into a seedling. The seedling grows through vegetative growth into a mature plant, developing a strong root system and woody stem, along with the characteristic feathery, aromatic leaves. As the plant matures, it will produce small yellowish or brownish flowers in late summer to early fall, which are pollinated by wind or insects. After pollination, the flowers will produce seeds that can be dispersed by wind or animal activity. Over winter, the plant may die back, especially in cooler climates, but being a perennial, it can regenerate the following spring from its woody base. Southernwood's growth and reproduction cycle can continue for many years as the plant can live for a substantial period with proper care and conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Southernwood, which Artemisia abrotanum is commonly known as, is by taking semi-hardwood cuttings. This is usually done in late summer. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, and it's important to select healthy, non-flowering shoots. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to facilitate root development. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the nodes where the leaves were removed are buried, as roots will develop from these points. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and cuttings are typically placed in a warm environment with indirect sunlight until roots have established, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, the plants can be transferred into individual pots or directly into the garden.
