Mountain Sagewort, Michaux's wormwood

Artemisia michauxiana

Physical Characteristics

Artemisia michauxiana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seeds eaten by US Goshiute (“kutsipawatsip”), probably in porridges. Few modern references exist. Lemon-scented leaves may be usable as a seasoning, but this has not been verified.[2-3]. Seed[105, 161, 177]. No further details are given, but the seed is very small and fiddly to use.

Medicinal Uses

Poultice A hot infusion of the plant has been used in the treatment of headaches[257]. A poultice of the chewed plant is applied to sprains and swellings[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].