Artemisia vulgaris
Family: Lamiaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to all temperate zones of the northern
hemisphere. Grows densely, making a fine herbal hedge, with leaves
whitish and downy on the underside, dark green above. The plant stirs
invitingly with every breeze. The dried root or leaf can be made
into a weak tea for its nervine, diuretic (the tea drunk cold), diaphoretic
(the tea drunk hot), and emmenagogue properties. Also, this is the
exact species used to prepare moxa cigars for Chinese moxabustion.
Cultivation:
Easy. The tiny seeds are best sown in flats rather than direct
seeding, so you can keep track of the seedlings. Sow in fall or early
spring. The plants are quite vigorous, and do not need special attention
once established. Plant 2 feet apart. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall.
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