Wormwood Seeds - where to buy Artemisia absinthium?

The seeds are available all year round, packaged in waterproof doypack bags. 1g equals 10,000 seeds

Botanical Description of Absinthe Absinthium

Absinthe Absinthium, or Artemisia absinthium, is a perennial plant which belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its bushy habit and can reach up to 1 meter in height. Its stems, erect and branched, bear silky, finely divided, silvery-green leaves, which give off a powerful aromatic scent when crushed. Flowering, which occurs from the end of June to September, presents small globular flower heads, grouped in narrow clusters, composed of pale yellow, almost greenish, tubular flowers. The seeds, contained in tiny achenes, are dispersed by the wind in late summer.

Benefits and Uses of Absinthe Absinthium

Absinthe Absinthium is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly digestive and tonic. It contains several active compounds, including absinthin and anabsinthin, which stimulate digestion and can relieve various gastrointestinal disorders such as dyspepsia and bloating. For external use, wormwood can be applied in the form of a poultice for its anti-inflammatory and healing effects, useful in the treatment of insect bites, bruises and rheumatic pain.

However, it is important to note that wormwood should be used with caution, as excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects, including neurotoxicity, due to the presence of thujone in the essential oil of the plant. Therefore, its use must always be done under the supervision and recommendation of a health professional.

To successfully grow Wormwood Absinthium (Artemisia absinthium), follow this comprehensive growing guide:

Sowing Time

Absinthe sowing is ideally done in spring, between March and April, when the risk of frost has passed. Seeds can also be sown in autumn in areas with milder climates.

Flowering Time

Flowering of Wormwood Absinthium typically occurs from late June to September, offering delicate pale yellow flowers that attract pollinators.

Temperatures for Sowing

Wormwood seeds germinate best at temperatures between 15°C and 20°C. Make sure the risk of frost has passed before sowing outdoors.

Watering

Wormwood prefers well-drained soils and is drought tolerant once established. Water sparingly just after sowing to keep the soil slightly moist until germination. Subsequently, reduce watering, because Wormwood tolerates drought quite well.

Rusticity

Absinthe Absinthium is a very hardy perennial plant. It can withstand winter temperatures down to -30°C. This robustness makes it an ideal plant for gardens located in regions with harsh winters.

Additional Growing Tips

• Soil and Location : Choose a sunny location with light, dry, well-drained soil. Wormwood thrives in poor, stony soils, making it an excellent plant for rock gardens or dry borders.
• Sowing : Sow the seeds on the surface, without covering them, as they need light to germinate. You can thin the seedlings once they have a few true leaves, leaving about 30 to 40 cm between each plant to allow for good development.
• Maintenance : Absinthe is a plant that requires little maintenance once established. You can prune the plant lightly after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a compact shape.

By following these tips, you should be able to successfully grow Wormwood Absinthium in your garden, benefiting from both its ornamental qualities and medicinal properties.

1. Artists' Inspiration
   At the turn of the 20th century, absinthe, nicknamed "the Green Fairy", was the muse of bohemian artists and writers in Paris. In smoky bistros, where lively discussions mingled with plumes of smoke, the drink made from Absinthe Absinthium flowed freely, supposedly to open the doors of perception and stimulate creativity. Iconic figures like Van Gogh and Hemingway were captivated by its mystical aura, leaving behind works tinged with its intoxicating effects.
2. An Ancient Remedy
   Far from the literary cafés of Paris, Absinthe Absinthium was already known to the ancients for its medicinal virtues. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, prescribed wormwood leaves to combat jaundice, anemia and painful menstruation. This age-old link between absinthe and health reveals the fascinating duality of this plant, both remedy and muse.
3. The Prohibition of the Green Fairy
   At the beginning of the 20th century, absinthe became the scapegoat for society's ills, accused of causing madness and depravity. In 1915, France, followed by other countries, banned absinthe, plunging Absinthe Absinthium into obscurity. It took almost a century for science to exonerate absinthe from these unfounded accusations, allowing the Green Fairy to rise from its ashes and win back the hearts of spirits lovers.
4. Soldiers' Resistance
   During the First World War, absinthe was distributed to French troops as a disinfectant and to boost courage. Soldiers returning from the front maintained their habit of absinthe aperitif, thus spreading its popularity. This tradition anchored absinthe in French culture, even surviving its prohibition.
5. The Absinthe Ritual
   Absinthe is not just a simple spirit; its tasting is a ritual. A pierced spoon carrying a piece of sugar is placed on a glass containing absinthe. Cold water is then slowly poured over the sugar, which dissolves and mixes with the absinthe, transforming the clear liquid into an opalescent potion. This ritual, almost alchemical, adds a ceremonial dimension to the tasting of absinthe, reinforcing the mystery enveloping the Green Fairy.

These anecdotes illustrate the rich history and fascinating culture that surround Absinthe Absinthium, revealing the complexity and depth of this iconic plant.

1. How to harvest Absinthe without damaging the plant?
   Cut back the top stems when they are in flower to encourage new growth and harvest the leaves as needed.
2. Is Absinthe difficult to maintain?
   No, Wormwood is a relatively easy plant to grow, requiring little maintenance once established.
3. Can we consume Absinthe from the garden?
   Yes, but in moderation and with knowledge of its strong properties, especially for the preparation of herbal teas.
4. Can Absinthe grow in a pot?
   Absolutely, Absinthe adapts well to growing in pots, allowing you to control its vigorous growth.
5. When is the best time to sow Absinthe?
   Sowing outdoors is ideal in spring, after the last frost, or in autumn in milder climates.

Guarantee of quality:
Each packet contains pure Argyreia Nervosa seeds, carefully selected to ensure premium quality and efficient germination.

• Precautions for Use
  Although the plant is primarily grown for its ornamental appearance, it is important to handle the seeds with care and educate yourself about their proper use, as they contain potent active substances.