Mugwort
pulicaria odora
Also known as: ["European Mugwort","Common Mugwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with aromatic leaves and yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pulicaria |
| Botanical Name: | Pulicaria odora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock garden or border in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during the growing season or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to remove up to one-third of the plant's growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from indoors; avoid placing in hot, direct afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but should be protected from frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for Pulicaria odora.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound to refresh the soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage holes; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until drainage occurs; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, only providing water when the soil is nearly dry to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth in cold conditions; leaf scorch or brown leaf tips in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage, leading to wilting and eventual decline if prolonged.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts and cold windows; reduce watering in cold conditions to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPulicaria odora is not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicPulicaria odora is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicPulicaria odora is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its slightly bitter taste and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pulicaria odora edible?
A: Some parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine, but it is not commonly consumed as food.
Q: Does Pulicaria odora attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Q: How should Pulicaria odora be cared for?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, with moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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