Artemisia abrotanum procera SOUTHERNWOOD (plant)

Cola Shrub, also known as Southernwood or Artemisia abrotanum procera in Latin, is a very hardy perennial belonging to the Asteraceae family. This bush is native to Southern Europe. It is a fast-growing species, reaching 1 meter in height and 60 cm in width.

The deciduous leaves are highly fragrant and release a cola aroma when touched. Its ornamental foliage is gray-green and very finely divided.

Cola Shrub seeds are very fine and gray, measuring 1 millimeter in length, and are generally dispersed by the wind once mature.

Its yellow flowering, which develops at the top of each stem, occurs during the summer period.

- Uses:

Vegetable cola is mainly used to flavor drinks. It can be enjoyed as an infusion, but it can also be used in cooking to flavor meats, fish, and salads, or to prepare desserts and sorbets. Its surprising cola scent can flavor beverages such as syrups or even cocktails.

The leaves were also used to manufacture an alcoholic beverage, which is where this fragrant species gets its common name.
Alcohol abuse is harmful to your health; please drink in moderation.

It is a rather rare and original plant with a cola scent that truly deserves to be better known. A must-have for any unique garden.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the specimen in a 5-liter pot using good quality horticultural potting soil, ensuring the bottom of the pot is well-drained.
• If planting in the ground, transplant to a bright location.
• For a culture of several specimens, space them at least 1.50 meters apart.
• Lightly pack the substrate at the base and water copiously.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

it grow very well in permeable, well-draining soil that is rich in minerals and organic matter.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It particularly appreciates a very sunny location. It needs plenty of natural light to develop properly.

- Watering / Irrigation:

This fragrant variety must be well-irrigated at the base during the first 3 weeks after planting. In summer, water once a week if it is very hot. No watering is necessary during other periods of the year if planted in the ground. In pots, water as soon as the soil feels dry; however, never let water sit in the saucer, as the risk of root rot is high.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

Cola mugwort grows best when temperatures range from 15 to 35°C. Below this range, growth stops and the foliage begins to brown. It is a hardy species that easily resists very low temperatures down to -10°C. Its USDA hardiness zone is 5-9.

- Multiplication:

It reproduces well by seed, but it is much simpler to take cuttings. Cut a stem 15 cm long, remove the foliage from the first 3 centimeters, and place it in a warm greenhouse in May.

- Pests / Diseases:

Artemisia abrotanum procera does not really have specific pests; however, its foliage is subject to fungal attacks and rust if there is excess water.

- Maintenance:

Prune dry branches and remove gray leaves in early spring to help it resume its growth.