Artemisia abrotanum
Artemisia abrotanum
Common names: Eberraute, Colakraut, Zitronenkraut, Stabwurz
Photo: Kurt Stüber [1] · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
Artemisia abrotanum, commonly known as bitter sage, is an aromatic semi‑shrub from the Asteraceae family. Depending on the variety, the fine, feathery leaves may smell like lemon or reminiscent of cola, hence the names "Zitronenkraut" and "Colakraut." The shrub typically reaches 60–120 cm in height, growing upright and becoming increasingly woody at the base over time. In cottage gardens and along orchard edges it has long served as a fragrant companion plant and insect‑repellent neighbor for more delicate vegetable crops. Note that, like other mugwort species, it is considered mildly toxic; the aromatic compounds can be intolerable in large amounts, so it is best used sparingly as a flavoring or scent rather than as a heavily consumed vegetable.
Care instructions
Bitter sage prefers a sunny, warm location with well‑drained, somewhat sandy or loamy soil; it does not thrive in heavy, water‑logged soils. Water only when the soil remains dry for an extended period, as the plant tolerates low moisture well. In spring, around mid‑April to early May (week 16–18), prune the semi‑shrub heavily to keep it bushy and prevent it from becoming leggy. Light winter protection such as straw or leaf mulch can shield young plants and container specimens during harsh winters. Because it grows slowly from seed, propagation by cuttings or division in early summer is usually the easier method.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lean, lime-loving, dry
Feeding
Light feeder
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