ArtemisiaVulgaris.jpg. by Fice. CC BY-SA 3.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Mugwort Plant Care
Artemisia vulgaris Burm.f.
Artemisia vulgaris, the common mugwort,[2] is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is one of several species in the genus Artemisia commonly known as mugwort, although Artemisia vulgaris is the species most often called mugwort. It is also occasionally known as riverside wormwood,[3] felon herb, chrysanthemum weed, wild wormwood, old Uncle Henry, sailor's tobacco, naughty man, old man, or St. John's plant (not to be confused with St John's wort).[4] Mugworts have been used medicinally and as culinary herbs.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–75°F
30–60%
What Is the Mugwort?
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Artemisia genus. Mugwort is also known as Common Wormwood, St. John's Plant, Felon Herb.
Mugwort displays an upright, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Mugwort produces insignificant small yellow or white flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Mugwort?
Artemisia vulgaris requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Mugwort Need?
Mugwort thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Mugwort in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Mugwort Prefer?
Artemisia vulgaris grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Mugwort prefers humidity levels of 30–60%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
30–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Mugwort?
Well-draining sandy soil with low fertility. Good drainage is essential for Mugwort to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Mugwort?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Mugwort?
Mugwort can be propagated through seeds, division. Similar propagation techniques also apply to wormwood plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Mugwort Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Mugwort?
Mugwort is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Mugwort Need?
Mugwort grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Mugwort as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Mugwort is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Artemisia genus — compare its care with other Artemisia species on PlantoScan.
Mugwort tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Artemisia Species
Other Artemisia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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