SafePlants

Artemisia alaskana: Alaskan Wormwood, Sagebrush of the North

Artemisia alaskana, commonly known as Alaskan sagebrush, Alaskan wormwood, or Siberian wormwood, is a fascinating plant native to North America. This perennial herb belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and boasts a rich history and intriguing characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Artemisia species are commonly known as wormwoods and sagebrushes.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that Artemisia species are commonly known as wormwoods and sagebrushes.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Artemisia alaskana Rydb.
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family), also referred to as Compositae in some sources.
• Group: Dicot
• Synonyms: Some sources list Artemisia tilesii (syn Artemesia unalaskensis) as Mountain Wormwood or Alaska Sagebrush.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Alaska, Northern Canada, British Columbia, the Yukon, and Northwest Montana.
• Inhabits dry, rocky, south-facing areas, often at high elevations in the mountains, but sometimes descending to sea level.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Bristol Bay region of Alaska, Kiska and Rat Islands of the western Aleutian Islands.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial forb/herb or subshrub.
• Grows up to 7 feet tall.
• Erect stem often has a red-purplish tinge.

Traditional Uses

• In the Bristol Bay region of Alaska, it is recognized as a native and medicinal plant.
• Artemisia tilesii (syn Artemesia unalaskensis): Poultice of leaves used to stop bleeding.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Some people are allergic to sagebrush and wormwood.

Quirky Facts

• A cultivar named 'Caiggluk' Tilesius' wormwood was developed by the Alaska Plant Materials Center in Palmer.
• Wormwood is also referred to as "Stink Weed" in the Bristol Bay region.

Additional Resources

• Encyclopedia of Life.
• ITIS Taxonomic Serial No.
• Discover Life