Sweet Annie (Artemisia annua) is an aromatic annual prized for its fine, fern-like foliage, airy texture, and warm-season growth. Its fragrant greenery adds movement and contrast to gardens, while delicate golden blooms arrive late season, attracting pollinators. This fast-growing ornamental herb performs well in full sun and tolerates poor soil, making it an excellent low-maintenance plant for borders, meadow gardens, cutting gardens, and dried foliage displays.
Features
- Aromatic, fern-like foliage with soft texture and visual interest.
- Non-GMO Artemisia annua seed variety.
- Fast-growing warm-season annual for borders and meadows.
- Golden late-season blooms attract pollinators.
- Excellent for dried arrangements and ornamental displays.
- Tolerates poor soils and resists drought once established.
Specifications
- Common Name: Sweet Annie, Sweet Wormwood
- Scientific Name: Artemisia annua
- Plant Type: Annual herb
- USDA Zones: 3–10 (grown as annual)
- Foliage: Fine-cut, fern-like aromatic green leaves
- Bloom Color: Yellow-gold small flower clusters
- Height: 3–6 feet
- Spread: 18–24 inches
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, average to poor soil
- Water Needs: Low to moderate once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes
- Maintenance: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 1–2 years stored cool and dry
Planting Guide
- Start indoors or direct sow outdoors after danger of frost.
- Press seeds lightly onto soil surface; do not bury (needs light).
- Keep soil moist until seedlings emerge (7–21 days).
- Provide bright light and warmth during early growth.
- Transplant outdoors when frost has passed and soil has warmed.
- Choose full sun for strongest growth and richest foliage scent.
- Water lightly; avoid overwatering once established.
- Allow plants to mature for dried foliage use or pollinator value.
- Optional: Deadhead to prevent self-seeding if containment is desired.
