Sweet Annie, Artemisia annua
An annual member of the medically-important wormwood family, Sweet Annie has a double identity--beloved for its fragrance in wreaths and bouquets, and source of major remedies worldwide. Native to the tropics, Sweet Annie has traditionally been used for fevers; modern research has spotlighted its antimalarial, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, and antiviral activities. Chinese scientist Tu Youyou was awarded the 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine for her discovery that the herb could be used to treat malaria. It is also being tested against tumors. Easy to grow: sprinkle the seeds on pot of tamped, sandy soil. Keep moist and in the light. Should sprout in 1-2 weeks. Transplants easily, grows vigorously to 8 ft. Cut the stalks as flowering begins. May also be cut numerous times during the season to keep the plant at a lower height and provide foliage continuously. Self-sows vigorously if left to make seed. (see the tiny seedling at right in the photo) 200 seeds