Absinthe

Other names

Wormwood

Growth habit

Herbaceous

Perennation

Perennial

Native distribution

Europe; Naturalized in Northeastern USA and Adjacent Canada

Biocultural value

Hippocrates and other ancient Greek physicians used it to treat cerebral disorders and as an anitidote to poison. It was also added to wine to reduce intoxication.

Location

Robison Herb Garden

Source of plant

Ridge House Gardens, Well-Sweep Herb Farm, Baker's Acres

Description

Coarse perennial herb reaching 4' in height; aromatic; stems erect, silky-hairy. Leaves orbicular-ovate inoutline, 2- to 3-pinnatifid into oblong segments, silvery-silky. Flowers heads 1/8" across, nodding, many in leafy panicles, receptacle with many long hairs.

USDA Hardiness Zone

5

Special characteristics

fragrance, medicinal/pharmaceutical, other ethnobotanical uses