Artemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood or annual wormwood, is a herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to temperate Asia but has spread to many other parts of the world. The plant is known for its feathery, aromatic leaves and small yellow flowers. It has been used in traditional medicine and is the source of the antimalarial compound artemisinin.
Artemisia annua prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. It should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. The plant thrives in moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme cold. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.
収穫
Artemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood, should be harvested just before the flowers fully open, typically in late summer to early autumn. The optimal time for harvesting is when the plant is in full bloom, as this is when the concentration of artemisinin, the active compound, is highest. To harvest, cut the plant at the base, leaving a few inches of stem above the ground. It is important to handle the plant gently to avoid damaging the leaves and flowers, which contain the valuable compounds. After harvesting, the plant should be dried in a well-ventilated, shaded area to preserve its medicinal properties.
土壌
Artemisia annua grows best in well-draining loamy soil. The soil should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Good drainage is essential for the plant's health.
肥料
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding.
植え替え
Repotting is generally not necessary for Artemisia annua as it is an annual plant. However, if grown in containers, it can be repotted in fresh soil at the beginning of the growing season.
伝搬
Artemisia annua can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds in early spring in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within two weeks.
剪定
Pruning is beneficial for Artemisia annua to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring or after the flowering period. Remove any dead or damaged stems.
毒性
Artemisia annua is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to handle plants with care and wash hands after handling.