Artemisia absinthium Lambrook Silver

Artemisia absinthium 'Lambrook Silver' is similar to common wormwood, which was used to produce absinthe. It forms an aromatic bushy undershrub with a very neat habit, a well-defined shape, and highly divided silver foliage that remains evergreen. It thrives in the most inhospitable corners of the garden, where other plants are neglected. Ideal for rocky soil and full sun, it does require a bit more moisture than other wormwoods. It provides a beautiful backdrop for tall perennials or small bushes.

Artemisia absinthium is a semi-shrubby perennial plant in the Asteraceae family, cultivated for culinary and ornamental purposes. This plant, native to the mountains of Europe, North Africa, and Asia, has naturalised in many regions of Europe and temperate Asia. 'Lambrook Silver' is a remarkable cultivar with its compact habit and silver foliage. This wormwood forms an undershrub that can reach 90cm (35in) in all directions after two years of cultivation. The plant is covered in silky white-silver hairs and numerous oil glands that give it its bitter scent. The stem is silver, straight, channelled, ramified, and heavily foliated. The leaves are alternate, silver-grey on top and almost white and silky underneath. The basal leaves can measure up to 25cm (10in) long and have long petioles. Along the stem, they have shorter petioles and are less divided. Those at the top can even be simple and petiole-less. The plant has a tough rhizome. Flowering occurs from July to September, but it is not particularly interesting. The tubular flowers are cream-white, arranged in globose heads that are pendulous and in turn grouped in leafy and ramified panicles.

'Lambrook Silver' prefers moist but well-drained soil and full sun. If the upper part freezes in its first winter, new buds located on the lower part of the stem will sprout in spring. Pair 'Lambrook Silver' with a few old-fashioned roses, and you'll create a charming tableau. Use this plant as a backdrop in perennial borders, to create a soothing contrast with brightly coloured flowers. It also finds its place in herb gardens, alongside common sage, lavender, thyme, and rosemary. As a dried bouquet, wormwood repels insects.