Southernwood, Old Man (Artemisia abrotanum)

Southernwood, Old Man
Scientific Name: Artemisia abrotanum L.
Synonym: Artemisia procera
Family: Asteraceae

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Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 20. Courtesy of Kentucky Native Plant Society. Scanned by Omnitek Inc. Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: All zones
USDA: 5-10

Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Thought to be native to the Mediterranean
Growth Habits: Deciduous shrubby perennial, 3 to 5 feet high (0.9-1.5 m), grey-green aromatic leaves
Watering Needs: Little water
Propagation: Seeds, cuttings

The lemon-scented leaves are sometimes used to flavor cakes, herbal teas, or meat based dishes. Its branches were used to produce a deep-yellow dye for use with wool.

Blooming Habits:
The Southernwood seldom blooms. It has yellow-white flowers in late summer, followed by abundant brown fruits.

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