Artemisia

Artemisia is a large genus of aromatic flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae).

Artemisia is a large genus of aromatic flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae). The genus includes herbs, perennials, and shrubs, many of which are grown for their silvery foliage, ornamental value, essential oils, or traditional culinary and medicinal uses. With about 300 species, it is one of the larger genera in the Asteraceae family.

Description

Artemisia plants are typically aromatic and may be herbaceous or shrubby. Their leaves are often finely divided or silvery gray, and their flowers are usually small and not especially showy. Garden species are often valued more for foliage than for flowers.

Distribution and habitat

Species in the genus are widespread in temperate regions, especially across the Northern Hemisphere. They are commonly associated with dry, sunny, and well-drained sites, often tolerating infertile soils.

Uses

Several Artemisia species are cultivated as ornamentals, culinary herbs, or sources of essential oils. Some species also have a long history of use in herbal medicine. The genus includes well-known plants such as wormwood, mugwort, tarragon, and sagebrush.

Notable species

Well-known members of the genus include Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort), Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon), Artemisia tridentata (big sagebrush), and Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood).