Growth form: Perennial fragrant forb that grows 3 to 4 feet tall. The stem is woody at the base and regrows from the soil surface each spring from a large taproot. Leaves are light to olive green, 2 to 5 inches long, and deeply divided. Flower stalks grow on the upper portion of the plant and produce numerous yellow flower heads 1/8 inch in diameter from late-July through mid-August.

Absinth wormwood is a member of the sage brush or mugwort family and is easily recognized by the strong sage odor. The plant appears grayish from a distance due to numerous fine hairs on the leaves and stems.

Absinth wormwood escaped from cultivated areas after it was introduced as a garden herb from Europe. Oil from the flower heads is used to prepare vermouth and absinth. The oil is also an ingredient in antiseptic liniments.