Chinese mugwort
artemisia verlotiorum
Also known as: ["Chinese wormwood","mugwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to China, known for its aromatic foliage and traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant foliage","wildlife attractant (bees)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Artemisia |
| Botanical Name: | Artemisia verlotiorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny, well-ventilated area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Avoid sudden exposure to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize less frequently than most plants; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors. Avoid cold drafts and ensure adequate light.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently if soil dries quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Artemisia verlotiorum. The plant's compounds can cause irritation to the digestive system and allergic reactions in some cats, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Artemisia verlotiorum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils and sesquiterpene lactones. While generally not life-threatening, the plant can cause discomfort and allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicArtemisia verlotiorum, commonly known as Chinese 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 toxic effects, which can lead to irritation of the digestive tract and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Artemisia verlotiorum edible?
A: Yes, it is used in traditional Chinese medicine and cooking, but should be consumed with caution due to potential toxicity.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators with its aromatic foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
