Artemisia afra aka African Wormwood

Artemisia afra, or African wormwood, is in the daisy family. Its native range starts in south-central Ethiopia and runs to southern Africa. It reaches Angola to the west. It grows on damp slopes, by streams, and near forest edges. This plant lives for years and forms clumps. The lower parts of its stems turn woody. Garden plants grow about 2–3 feet [0.6–0.91 metres] tall. They spread about 3 feet [0.91 metres] wide. Broader accounts give heights up to 6.6 feet [2 metres].

The stems stand upright. They bear green leaves, finely cut like fern fronds. White hairs cover the leaf undersides. These give the plant a grey-green look. Touch or bruise the leaves to release their strong scent. Small yellow flowers grow at branch tips in summer. Missouri Botanical Garden gives the bloom time as August to September. Its species account says the flowers add little to the display. The leaves give the plant most of its garden appeal.

Grow African wormwood in full sun and soil that drains well. Light to medium soils suit it, and it tolerates poor ground. It prefers slightly acid soil but copes with neutral soil. Garden soil can be dry to moist, but not too wet. Once plants take root, they cope with drought and heat. They also cope with shallow, rocky ground. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 6–9. Yet plants do not survive every winter throughout the St. Louis area. Wet soil can cause root rot.

Growth is fast. Older clumps grow thicker as they spread. Rich soil or part shade can make tall stems flop. Heavy summer rain and damp air can harm the leaves. Pinch stems in late spring to curb height and long, bare growth. Cut back hard while the plant rests to spur fresh growth. Grow new plants from seed, cuttings, or split clumps. Useful Tropical Plants says cuttings root with ease. Deer and rabbits tend to leave this plant alone.

The fine leaves add contrast in beds and mixed borders. The plant suits herb gardens, rock gardens, and dry sites. Beside paths, its leaves give off scent when brushed. Dried leaves go in scent bags and potpourri. People have also used it in insect sprays and to repel moths. African communities have long used it as a healing herb. Reported uses treat coughs, colds, fever, and worms. These records show past practice, not proof of safe treatment. Useful Tropical Plants lists no food uses or known hazards. This does not prove it is safe for people or pets.