Artemisia annua (Sweet annie) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Artemisia annua forms a tall, elegant annual with soft, feathery, lime-green foliage that releases a distinctive fresh, resinous scent when handled. Its finely divided leaves give the plant a light, almost cloud-like texture. As the season progresses, Sweet Annie produces airy plumes of tiny yellowish flower clusters that create a shimmering effect in late summer sun. The plant’s upright form, vibrant colour and strong fragrance make it one of the most ornamental Artemisia species grown for both aesthetic and traditional purposes.

Growing conditions: Although classified as a hardy annual, Artemisia annua performs reliably in the Irish climate once established. It prefers full sun to light shade and thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. The species originates from Asia and the Americas, and grows vigorously during Ireland’s summer months, reaching size quickly (150cm) from spring planting. Supplied in a 9 cm pot, it should be planted out after frost risk has passed or started indoors earlier in the season. As an annual, it completes its entire life cycle within one growing year.

Traditional & herbal uses: Sweet Annie has a long worldwide history of use in traditional herbal contexts relating to fever, cooling actions and general seasonal discomforts. It has also been associated with the development of anti-malarial compounds and has been referenced historically for headaches and heat-related symptoms. Commonly used along side a formulation of herbs for treating Lymes. The whole aerial parts collected at full flower are the portions most commonly mentioned.

Maintenance & harvesting: Water regularly during dry spells, but avoid overfeeding, as the plant prefers moderate soil fertility. Pinching out young growth can encourage a fuller, bushier shape. Harvest leaves and flowers throughout summer, with the highest aromatic quality reached just before the tiny flower clusters fully open. At the end of the season, remove the spent plant before it seeds excessively—although some gardeners allow it to self-seed lightly for next year’s crop. As an annual, it will die back completely after flowering.