A shrubby semi-evergreen (it loses foliage in winter in cold climates and as the plants age), it grows to 1 m (3 ft.) tall and has feathery, grey-green leaves with a clean, lemony scent. It seldom flowers in northern climates, but in warmer southern regions small yellow flowers appear in summer.
History and traditions
A native of southern Europe, southernwood was introduced to Britain in about 1548, where the popular name, southernwood, directly described its origins as a woody plant from the south. It soon became established as a cottage garden favorite, attracting new names and associations. Lad’s love and old man came about because smearing its ashes in an ointment base was supposed to make pimply youths sprout virile beards and bring new growth to bald heads. Other authorities claim that boys in love wore it in their hats, or gave sprigs as love tokens to the objects of their affections. The French name “garderobe” refers to the habit of including this herb in sachets to protect clothes from insect infestation. It was also thought to protect from infection and was included in nosegays carried for the purpose.
Culinary
Although there is some evidence of its use in southern European cookery, it is really far too bitter for the purpose.
Growth
Prefers a light soil, full sun and tolerates drought. It is easy to propagate from softwood cuttings throughout summer, or heeled cuttings from old wood in autumn. Needs clipping back hard in late spring to prevent straggly, woody growth. Plants are best replaced after 6-8 years.
Uses
Medicinal
Southernwood tea is said to stimulate the appetite and digestion. It is also prescribed for menstrual problems. At one time it was given to children to rid them of their threadworms.
Aromatic
Its insect repellent properties and pleasant smell when dried make it a first choice herb for sachets to keep moths and insects at bay, or to include in pot-pourri.
