Fringed Wormwood, Prairie sagewort

Artemisia frigida

Physical Characteristics

Artemisia frigida is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

N. America - Minnesota to Saskatchewan, Yukon, Texas and Arizona. N. Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment Fringed sagewort offers a useful sage-like seasoning and occasional edible seeds, but is too bitter and strong for regular food use. Best as a culinary herb in small amounts. The leaves are used by the Hopi Indians as a flavouring for sweet corn[61, 172, 177, 183, 257].

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Deodorant Disinfectant Poultice Stimulant Stomachic Vermifuge Women's complaints The leaves are stomachic, vermifuge and used in the treatment of women's complaints[172]. The plant contains camphor, which is stimulant and antispasmodic[213]. An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of biliousness, indigestion, coughs and colds whilst the leaves are chewed and the juice swallowed to treat heartburn[257]. A poultice of the chewed leaves is used as a poultice to reduce swellings and the leaves are also placed in the nose to stop nosebleeds[257]. A hot poultice of the leaves has been used to treat toothache[257]. The leaves can be used as a sanitary towel to help reduce skin irritation[257]. They are also drunk as a tea when the woman is menstruating or to treat irregular menstruation[257]. The dried leaves are burnt in a room as a disinfectant[257]. A decoction of the root is used as a stimulant and tonic[257].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, skin contact with some members of this genus can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some people[222].