Southern Wormwood, Southernwood, Lad's Love, Old Man

I was inspired to seek out this herb after reading War Poet, Edward Thomas's beautiful poem, "Old Man." He never wanted to be without th...Read Moreis herb at his front door.

It has so many names~ "Lad's Love," "Maiden's Ruin." I presume it's also "Mugwort."

I too love its bitter sweet scent.

Have just bought three varieties~
"Powys Castle," "Parfum d Ethiopia," and "David's Choice."

Plant this somewhere you will brush up against it for the fresh clean scent. Cut it for use as a filler in flower arrangements, in addit...Read Moreion to adding a nice smell, will also repel bugs. To keep it tidy, prune hard in early spring, taking out the larger woody stems from the middle.

I have had this herb growing next to my pond for about three years now. I love its look in the spring and early summer and has a pleasing...Read More delicate smell. By mid-summer and thereafter it tends to become leggy and brown starting at the base and working its way up. I'm wondering if this is normal or am I doing something wrong. It is in well drained somewhat sandy soil, gets full sun. Does it need some kind of special nutrient, certain watering needs, etc.? Should it be cut down every so often during the growing season? Thanks for any help.

My grandfather had a hedge of this plant, at least 5ft high. It was dense, soft to brush against and smelt wonderful, especially when he ...Read Morewas clipping it. This was in the North of England. It grows equally well in my zone 10 garden, and I wouldn't be without it.