Cultivation characteristics and flavonoid contents of wormwood (Artemisia montana Pamp.)

The aim of this study was to establish the optimum harvesting time and the content of flavonoids in the leaves, stems, and roots of Artemisia montana Pamp. A. montana was monitored from June to October in 2012. The yield of A. montana at high density (30 × 10 cm) was higher than that of A. montana at low density (30 × 20 and 30 cm). Yield in terms of dry weight was increased with an extended growth period and development stage. High yield achieved at 2580 and 2757 kg·10 a in September and October, respectively. Among the leaves, stems, and underground plant organs, jaceosidin and eupatilin were mainly detected in the leaves, and the highest levels were observed in June, at values of 66.6 and 158.2 mg·100 g, respectively. In contrast, apigenin was the major compound detected in the underground plant organs, with levels ranging from 21.2 to 29.5 mg·100 g until September. Therefore, optimal harvest times were between September and October, generating a high yield and adding economic value although a higher level of total flavonoids was observed in crops harvested in June.