Family: Asteraceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Encycl. 1: 262 (1783)
Year: 1783
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Artemisia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Europe
Description
Alpine wormwood, scientifically known as Artemisia umbelliformis, is a distinct and fascinating species belonging to the Asteraceae family. Described and classified in the late 18th century, this plant was first documented in the “Encyclopédie, ou Dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers” in 1783 by the renowned French naturalist Lamarck.
Native to Europe, Alpine wormwood thrives in the rugged and often inhospitable environments of mountainous regions. This hardy plant has adapted to survive at high altitudes where it garners nutrients and moisture from the rocky alpine soils. Its resilience in tough conditions makes it a notable representative of the diverse European flora.
The delicate yet resilient stature of Artemisia umbelliformis makes it easily distinguishable in its natural habitat. It typically grows to a modest height, spreading its finely divided foliage which emanates a subtly fragrant aroma. The plant’s leaves are covered in fine silvery hairs, a feature that helps reduce water loss by reflecting sunlight and creating a barrier against the cold. In the blooming season, Alpine wormwood produces small, yellowish flower heads arranged in umbrella-like clusters, adding a touch of color to the otherwise stark landscape.
Alpine wormwood has a long history of usage in traditional medicine, where it is often employed for its potential therapeutic properties. The plant’s aromatic leaves have been utilized for various remedies, particularly in treating digestive issues and as a vermifuge. Additionally, it has been a subject of interest for researchers studying its potential phytochemical compounds and their benefits.
Despite its tough nature, Alpine wormwood has faced threats from environmental changes and human activities, which pose risks to its natural alpine ecosystems. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure that this remarkable plant continues to thrive in its native habitat and remains a part of the rich botanical heritage of Europe.
In summary, Alpine wormwood (Artemisia umbelliformis) is a significant alpine species that embodies the beauty and resilience of Europe’s mountainous flora. Its adaptation to extreme environments and its historical usages in herbal medicine highlight its importance both ecologically and culturally. Through continued study and conservation, Alpine wormwood’s legacy can be preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Common Names
En: Alpine wormwood, Alps wormwood, White Genepi, Yellow Genipi
Bg: Алпийски пелин
Fr: Genépi, Génépi blanc, Genépi blanc, Genépi jaune, Génépi jaune, Armoise lâche
De: Edelraute, Echte Edelraute
It: Genipi, Assenzio genep√¨ bianco, Assenzio genepì bianco
Ru: Полынь альпийская
Sv: Temalört
Synonyms
- Artemisia glacialis var. umbelliformis ((Lam.) Rouy)
Distribution
- Albania (native)
- Austria (native)
- Bulgaria (native)
- Czechoslovakia (native)
- France (native)
- Germany (native)
- Greece (native)
- Italy (native)
- Poland (native)
- Romania (native)
- Spain (native)
- Switzerland (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
- New York (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by du cha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 13, 2021 by Haleigh Zillges (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 3, 1998 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 3, 1998 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jul 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 21, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Mathieu MENAND (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Alla Mashanova (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 14, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken May 22, 2021 by Association Environat (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Aug 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Thierry Pernot (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8981321)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:180243-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Artemisia umbelliformis Lam.)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3120864)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb