Not all wormwoods are the same. There are varieties that stand out from other varieties due to their special ornamental value. Other specimens are highly valued by gardeners because of their aroma and differ in the power of their effects. Here is an overview of the most important varieties.
What types of wormwood are there and what are they suitable for?
Important wormwood varieties are real wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), Roman wormwood (Artemisia pontica), Provence wormwood and lesser-known varieties such as Austrian wormwood (Artemisia autriaca) or carpet wormwood (Artemisia assoana). Roman and Provence wormwood are suitable for consumption, other varieties have primarily ornamental value.
True wormwood/Artemisia absinthium
True wormwood is the most common. This includes, for example, the two recommended varieties 'Lambrook Silver' and 'Lambrook Mist'. Both varieties are not prolific, have gray-silver foliage and are ideal for decorating herbaceous beds. Its value as an ornamental plant is high. Their plants are less important to the gardeners who plant them.
Roman wormwood/Artemisia pontica
Roman wormwood takes second place. It is often used to make absinthe. Its foliage is grey-green and it does not grow rampant. Everything about him is fine. Its leaves are delicate and delicate and the aroma is mild.
Because it contains less thujone (an essential oil that is toxic in high doses), it is more recommended for making tea than wormwood. This specimen is also the right choice if you want to add wormwood to your bath water or make a tincture from it.
Provence Vermouth
Provence wormwood is considered the ideal variety for balcony boxes and containers. It grows compactly and reaches a maximum height of 40 cm. Its leaves are tart-sweet, fruity and pleasantly aromatic. This variety is often used to make liqueur.
Other, lesser-known varieties
There are also varieties that are less common in gardens in this country. Some come from Asia, others grow like a carpet and others are huge. Here are recommended and rarer varieties for cultivation:
- Austrian wormwood/Artemisia autriaca
- Slit leaf wormwood/Artemisia laciniata
- S alt steppe wormwood/Artemisia santonicum
- Silver shrub wormwood/Artemisia arborescens 'Powis Castle'
- Carpet wormwood/Artemisia assoana
Tips & Tricks
Roman wormwood and Provence wormwood are particularly suitable for planting with the aim of using. The other varieties are more suitable as ornamental plants.