Under Bylaw 18-2018, absinthe wormwood is designated as a noxious weed within Strathcona County. It is of special concern in our community, and it’s important to take steps to control the spread. 

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Concerns and causes from this noxious weed

Once established, absinthe wormwood is difficult to control. It can be toxic to other plants in the area, and it can crowd out other vegetation in damaged and overgrazed areas. 

Most cattle and horses will not eat absinthe by choice. But if it is inadvertently mixed with feed and consumed, it can become an agricultural issue. Dairy cattle will produce tainted milk products and breeding stock can have reproductive problems.  

While it is not generally a problem in annual crops, absinthe seed and leaves can contaminate flour and other grain products. It can also cause hay fever due to the wind-borne pollen. 

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How to identify absinthe wormwood

• Semi-woody perennial plant native to Europe and Asia 
• Multiple stems form a bushy plant, 40-60 cm in height  
• Silvery-grey colour with yellow flowers  
• Requires disturbance to be established 
• Very strong sage-like smell – you an often smell it before you see it 

Flowering occurs in July, and it reproduces by seed, up to 50,000 seeds per stem. Seeds are transported by wind and can remain viable for 3-4 years.  

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Control options to prevent the spread

Overgrazing creates the perfect conditions for absinthe wormwood; the best control is prevention through proper pasture management.  

Also: 

• Tillage can be effective in cropped areas.  
• Mowing can prevent seed production, but will need to be repeated several times and will not reduce an infestation.  
• Hand-pulling is not recommended because of its deep taproot, which can reach two inches in diameter.  
• Several herbicide options are available. Please call 780-417-7100 for information about herbicides.

For more information, review the Absinthe wormwood fact sheet from the Albert Invasive Species Council. 

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Further information: