Artemisia cina, commonly known as santonica (zahr el shieh el -khorasani), Levant wormseed, and wormseed, is an Asian species of herbaceous perennial in the daisy family. Its dried flowerheads are the source of the vermifugic drug santonin since ancient times. Its common names arise from its known ability to expel worms. The powder is grayish-green in colour with an aromatic odour and a bitter taste. Dysphania ambrosioides is another plant with the common name wormseed, called epazote in Mexican cuisine.The plant is characterised by its spherical pollen grains, which are typical in the Asteraceae; a fibrous layer on anthers; lignified, elongated, hypodermal sclerids; and clusters of calcium oxalate crystals. It is native to China, Pakistan, Russia, Turkestan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.It is referenced in the short story “Funes the Memorious” by Jorge Louis Borges.
Artemisia cina is fairly disease-resistant and generally not prone to illnesses. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. These issues are generally not serious. In terms of care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to keep a neat appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Artemisia cina is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Artemisia Cina.
Light
Artemisia cina is a perennial herbaceous plant that prefers sunny locations and comes from open habitats, commonly found in meadows and grasslands. It favors full sun but can tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
Artemisia cina can adjust to a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be restricted by particular combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with adequate rainfall or irrigation. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures increase the chance of Artemisia cina dying. In winter, protecting it from cold can raise its likelihood of surviving.
Fertilizer
Usually one spring application of fertilizer is enough for Artemisia cina, though repeated feedings can maximize growth. Feed it once every month to six weeks. Fertilization improves leaf appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also stimulates root development and nutrient uptake, supporting long-term plant health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Artemisia
- Family
- Compositae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-9
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 40 cm
- Leaf Color
- Silver
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early fall, Mid fall
Other names.
