Wormwood For Sale

Artemisia – Best Plants In New Zealand!

Growing flowering plants such as Artemisia (commonly known as Wormwood) delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• They bring colour and vibrance to a space.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have plenty of Wormwood Plants and we’ll help you find the right one for your space. Choose from a wide variety of locally grown plants that have been propagated and bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Wormwood plants, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Wormwood Questions

1. What is the English name for Artemisia plant?

The English name for Artemisia plant is mugwort. It is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae, with between 200 and 400 species. The other common names for various species in the genus include sagebrush and wormwood.

2. What is the difference between wormwood and Artemisia?

Wormwood is a species of Artemisia, so all wormwood plants are Artemisia plants, but not all Artemisia plants are wormwoods! Artemisia is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae, with between 200 and 400 species. Common names for various species in the genus include mugwort, wormwood, and sagebrush.

Wormwood, specifically Artemisia absinthium, is a bitter-tasting herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and is used in the alcoholic beverage, absinthe.

Some other popular species of Artemisia include:

• Artemisia vulgaris (common mugwort)
• Artemisia tridentata (sagebrush)
• Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood)
• Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon)

3. What are the side effects of Artemisia plant?

Artemisia plants are generally safe for most people when used in small amounts. However, they can cause side effects in some people, especially when used in high doses or for long periods of time. These include:

• Some people may be allergic to Artemisia plants. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.
• Artemisia plants can cause digestive problems such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Artemisia plants contain a chemical called thujone, which can cause seizures in some people.
• Artemisia plants can cause neurological problems such as headache, dizziness, and tremors.
• Artemisia plants can damage the liver in some people.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using Artemisia plants, as there is not enough evidence to determine the effects.

4. Is Artemisia toxic to dogs?

Artemisia is toxic to dogs. All parts of the Artemisia plant, including the leaves, flowers, nectar, and pollen, are poisonous to dogs. Ingestion of even small amounts of Artemisia can cause serious illness or death.

Symptoms of Artemisia poisoning in dogs can include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Drooling
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Coma

If you think your dog may have ingested Artemisia, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. There is no specific antidote for Artemisia poisoning, but treatment may include supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, activated charcoal, and medication to control seizures.

5. Is wormwood toxic to humans?

The plant Artemisia absinthium can be toxic to humans. Wormwood contains a chemical called thujone, which can cause seizures, neurological problems, and liver damage in high doses. Nonetheless, Wormwood has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, but there is limited scientific evidence to support its safety or efficacy for any specific health condition.

6. What is the best time to plant Artemisia?

The best time to plant Artemisia is during spring or summer. This will give the plant time to establish itself before the cold weather arrives.

7. Can you grow wormwood in NZ?

Wormwood can be grown in New Zealand. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of conditions but prefers a full sun position with a well-drained soil.

There are many different varieties of wormwood, each with its own unique appearance and properties. Some of the most popular varieties for growing in New Zealand include:

• Artemisia absinthium: This is the classic wormwood, known for its bitter taste and use in absinthe. It grows to about 1 metre tall and has silvery-green leaves.
• Artemisia ludoviciana: This variety is also known as white sage and is commonly used for smudging. It grows to about 2 metres tall and has white woolly leaves.
• Artemisia dracunculus: This is the variety commonly known as tarragon. It is a culinary herb with a licorice-like flavor. It grows to about 1 metre tall and has green leaves.

8. Why is mugwort illegal?

Mugwort isn't universally illegal, but it's considered an invasive species in certain areas due to its aggressive growth and potential to harm native ecosystems:

Invasive nature:

• Mugwort spreads quickly through root fragments and seeds, displacing native vegetation and disrupting natural ecosystems.
• Mugwort releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants, further hindering native species.
• Mugwort outcompetes native plants for resources like sunlight and nutrients, hindering their growth and survival.

Legal restrictions:

• Listed as a noxious weed: In certain countries and states, like New Zealand and some US states, mugwort is listed as a noxious weed. This legal designation prohibits the cultivation, sale, or distribution of the plant.
• Fines and penalties: Growing or selling mugwort in prohibited areas can result in fines and penalties.
• Control and eradication programs: Government agencies often implement control and eradication programs to manage mugwort populations and prevent further ecological damage.

While mugwort might be illegal in some areas, it's important to note that it's not universally banned. Many places still allow its cultivation and use, especially for traditional medicinal purposes. However, it's crucial to be aware of local regulations and restrictions before planting or selling mugwort.

9. Is wormwood toxic to liver?

Wormwood, especially the sweet wormwood variety (Artemisia annua), can be toxic to the liver. Here's what you need to know:

Toxic component:

• Thujone: Wormwood contains a compound called thujone, which can be toxic in high doses. Thujone can damage the liver cells and cause inflammation, leading to liver toxicity.
• Artemisinin: Sweet wormwood specifically contains artemisinin, a potent anti-malarial compound. While artemisinin has therapeutic benefits, it can also be harmful to the liver if used in excessive amounts or for prolonged periods.

Potential risks:

• Liver damage: Overconsumption of wormwood can lead to various liver problems, including hepatitis, abnormal liver function, and even liver failure.
• Other health problems: In severe cases, wormwood poisoning can cause seizures, hallucinations, and even death.