HERB ‘Wormwood’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood is a striking, aromatic perennial herb with soft, silver-green foliage and a long history of medicinal and garden use. Known for its bitter flavour and strong scent, it is traditionally used in herbal remedies to aid digestion and stimulate appetite. In the garden, wormwood is valued for its natural pest-repellent properties and ability to thrive in dry, poor soils. This hardy plant is an excellent choice for herb gardens, borders, or naturalised dry landscapes where low maintenance is preferred.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Hardy, cool-season perennial
- Plant Height: Up to 120 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: Optimal at 15–20°C
- Depth: Sow 1 mm deep (light cover or press into soil)
- Position: Full sun
- Sow Where: Start indoors and transplant, or sow directly
- Soil Type: Well-drained, moderately fertile to poor soil
- Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Do not overwater—Wormwood thrives in dry, low-fertility soils once established.
- Trim regularly to shape and encourage bushy growth.
- Avoid planting near vegetables or sensitive herbs, as wormwood can inhibit the growth of nearby plants (allelopathy).
Harvest
Harvest mature leaves after 90–120 days. Leaves may be used fresh or dried for teas, tinctures, or natural pest deterrents.
When to Sow Wormwood in New Zealand
| Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| North Island | March–May or September–November | Sow direct or start in trays. Prefers full sun and dry areas once established. |
| South Island | September–November | Start in trays or sow directly after last frost. Mulch lightly to retain warmth in spring. |
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