Mugwort

artemisia vulgaris

Also known as: ["Common Mugwort","Felon Herb","St. John's Plant"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Artemisia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with aromatic, silvery-green leaves and reddish-brown stems, often found in disturbed areas and along roadsides.

Benefits & Perks

["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Artemisia
Botanical Name: Artemisia vulgaris

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on season.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, or shear for even growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Artemisia vulgaris may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Artemisia vulgaris can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Artemisia vulgaris may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Artemisia vulgaris is often associated with root or stem rot caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soil, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions if they consume parts of Artemisia vulgaris. The plant's compounds can irritate the digestive tract and skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea itching
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from ingesting the plant. Seek veterinary advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Artemisia vulgaris can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. While not highly toxic, it can cause discomfort and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Artemisia vulgaris, commonly known as mugwort, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's essential oils and sesquiterpene lactones are responsible for its irritant properties.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should exercise caution.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Mugwort edible?

A: Yes, Mugwort leaves and young shoots are edible and used in culinary dishes, particularly in Asian cuisines.

Q: Does Mugwort have any medicinal uses?

A: Yes, Mugwort has been used traditionally for its potential digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Q: Is Mugwort invasive?

A: Yes, Mugwort can be invasive in some regions due to its vigorous growth and ability to spread via rhizomes.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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