Also known as Ahinahina · Biennial Sagewort · Slender Mugwort
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Biennial wormwood (Artemisia biennis) is an herbaceous plant, often grown as an annual, featuring aromatic foliage and small, inconspicuous flowers. It is native to North
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogging. Allow topsoil to dry between waterings.
Adaptable to most well-drained soils
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures; can tolerate a range of conditions but may struggle in extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Generally requires minimal fertilization. Light feeding in spring is sufficient for most conditions.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains sesquiterpene lactones and essential oils that can cause dermatitis and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during the first year and dry periods. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months or if the plant is established in a moist climate.
Pruning is mainly for shaping and to encourage bushier growth. Pinch back young plants to promote branching. Remove dead, damaged, or leggy stems as needed.
Deadheading can prevent self-seeding, which can be aggressive in some conditions. Light pruning can be done in spring or after flowering.
Artemisia biennis is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds in early spring, either directly outdoors after the last frost or indoors a few weeks prior. The plant also readily self-seeds in the garden.
Cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in moist soil.
As a biennial, Artemisia biennis is often treated as an annual or self-seeding perennial and typically does not require frequent repotting.
If grown in a container, repot in spring before new growth begins, moving to a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Biennial Wormwood (Artemisia biennis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Artemisia |
| Species | Artemisia biennis |
Similar in genus Artemisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
