Common Wormwood

Artemisia tilesii
Asteraceae/AsterFamily

Common Wormwood grows in open woodlands in low elevations and sandy places in low mountainous areas. It is a tall leafy plant (2-5'). The leaves are deeply cut with 3-5 lobes that are green on top and silvery and hairy below. The nodding flowers are small, greenish-yellow and look like the center of a daisy.

The genus Artemisia also includes sage and sage brush. Like other members of the genus the leaves of wormwood are very fragrant.

Artemisia was named after Artemis, Apollo's twin sister, Greek goddess of the moon, wild animals and the hunt, vegetation and childbirth. She protected all mortal beings from pestilence and disease because she discovered the medicinal value of these plants.