Sweet Wormwood
artemisia annua
Also known as: ["Sweet Annie","Annual Wormwood"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant known for its aromatic leaves and traditional medicinal uses, particularly for its antimalarial properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant flowers","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia annua |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or large container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyModerate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F)
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape plant as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and airflow.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if growing indoors; cover outdoors if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow; risk of sunburn.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicArtemisia annua is slightly toxic to cats if ingested in significant amounts. The plant's compounds can cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in cats. While not highly toxic, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicArtemisia annua is slightly toxic to dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The plant contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in dogs. While not highly toxic, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicArtemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when used in traditional medicinal doses. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The plant contains artemisinin, which has therapeutic properties but can cause adverse effects at high concentrations.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Artemisia annua used for?
A: It is primarily used for its antimalarial properties, particularly the compound artemisinin.
Q: Is Artemisia annua safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How should Artemisia annua be cared for?
A: It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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