White Mugwort Artemisia lactiflora
ABOUT
Artemisia lactiflora, commonly known as white mugwort, is a perennial herb characterized by its striking and attractive foliage. The leaves of white mugwort are deeply divided, providing a feathery texture, and they usually display a dark green hue that can be seen across the various branches. As the common name suggests, the plant produces creamy white flowers that arrange themselves in elegant, upright plumes, imparting a soft and airy appearance to the overall structure. These flowers tend to have a sweet scent that attracts pollinators and adds a fragrant dimension to gardens. The stems are typically sturdy and upright, giving the plant a bushy and dense form. Overall, white mugwort is prized for its ornamental value, with its combination of textured foliage and graceful flowering spikes that contribute to its pleasing aesthetics in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
White Mugwort, Pale-Flowered Wormwood
Common names
Artemisia kitadakensis, Artemisia lactiflora var. angustior, Artemisia lactiflora var. laevigata, Artemisia lactiflora var. pinnatilobata, Artemisia mairei, Artemisia mollis, Artemisia wulingshanensis.
ToxicityTo humans
The White Mugwort, as Artemisia lactiflora is commonly known, is not typically considered toxic to humans. There is little evidence of this plant having significant toxic effects when ingested in small quantities. However, as with many plants, consuming it in larger quantities may lead to digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals. It should be noted that members of the genus Artemisia can contain compounds that may act as irritants, so it's advisable to approach with caution if you are unfamiliar with the plant.
To pets
White Mugwort is not widely recognized as a toxic plant for pets. Similar to its effects in humans, there is little documentation of severe toxicity in animals, such as cats and dogs, from ingesting White Mugwort. However, as with any plant, ingestion might cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergies depending on the sensitivity of the individual pet. It's always recommended to keep an eye on your pet if they have ingested this plant and to consult with a veterinarian if any worrying symptoms arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Artemisia lactiflora, also known as White Mugwort, adds visual appeal to gardens with its elegant foliage and creamy-white flower plumes.
- Drought Tolerance: It is known for its ability to withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.
- Low Maintenance: White Mugwort requires minimal care once established, making it an easy plant for gardeners of all levels.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the plant can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for the garden ecosystem.
- Culinary Use: While this list excludes medical properties, the leaves and stems of some Artemisia species are used in culinary applications for their aromatic qualities.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Artemisia lactiflora has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and relieve associated symptoms.
- Menstrual Cycle Regulation: It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help regulate the menstrual cycle and address issues such as irregular periods.
- Gastrointestinal Support: There is some belief that Artemisia lactiflora can aid in soothing the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms like bloating and indigestion.
- Antimicrobial Activity: Constituents from this plant may possess antimicrobial properties that could help in fighting off certain infections.
- Neuroprotective Effects: There is some research suggesting that it might have neuroprotective effects, potentially beneficial for cognitive health.
- Immune Modulation: Artemisia lactiflora might have an impact on the immune system, though the specific effects are not well-defined and require more research.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental Gardening: Artemisia lactiflora, commonly known as White Mugwort, is often used for its attractive foliage and structure, adding aesthetic appeal to garden landscapes.
- Dye Production: The plant can be used to produce a natural dye for textiles, though it is not widely used for this purpose.
- Aromatherapy: The fragrant leaves of White Mugwort may be used in potpourri or scent sachets to provide a delicate aroma in homes and closets.
- Culinary Garnish: Fresh or dried leaves of the plant can be used as a garnish to add a unique flavor and visual appeal to certain dishes.
- Floral Arrangements: White Mugwort can be included in cut flower arrangements, providing an airy, ethereal contrast to other flowers.
- Companion Planting: The plant might be utilized in agricultural or horticultural settings as a companion plant due to its aromatic properties which are thought to deter certain pests.
- Witchcraft and Rituals: Historically, some species of Artemisia have been used in various cultural rituals and folk magic practices for protective or cleansing purposes.
- Livestock Forage: In some regions, Artemisia lactiflora may be used as a forage plant for certain types of livestock, offering variety in their diet.
- Natural Fencing: Growing Artemisia lactiflora in dense clusters can create a loose, natural fence or visual boundary in gardens or wild areas.
- Soil Improvement: This plant may be employed in regenerative agriculture practices to help improve soil health through its root system and leaf litter.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Artemisia lactiflora, also known as White Mugwort, is not commonly used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Artemisia lactiflora, also known as White Mugwort, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - Artemisia plants, including White Mugwort (the common name of Artemisia lactiflora), have been historically used in various cultures for protective charms against evil spirits.
- Healing - The genus Artemisia is often associated with medicinal properties, and the White Mugwort is no exception, symbolizing the healing of physical or emotional ailments.
- Psychic Powers - Some believe that this plant could enhance psychic abilities or boost one’s intuition.
- Dreams - Artemisia can symbolize the world of dreams, either by promoting peaceful sleep, dream recall, or even prophetic dreams.
WaterWhite Mugwort should be watered regularly to maintain moist but not soggy soil, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot. A general guide is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry, which might be approximately once a week, using about 1/2 to 1 gallon of water each time, depending on the plant size and environmental conditions. Increase watering if the plant is in full sun or during periods of extended heat and drought. Always use a watering method that soaks the soil thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain away.
LightWhite Mugwort does best in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for it is where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter climates. An eastern or western exposure can also work well, providing a balance of sun and light shade to encourage healthy growth.
TemperatureWhite Mugwort thrives in a temperature range between 50°F and 75°F, but can survive temperatures as low as 10°F and as high as 90°F. The ideal growing temperatures are moderate, avoiding extremes. Plant it in an area protected from harsh winds that can damage the foliage in colder temperatures.
PruningWhite Mugwort should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and cut back by about one-third to one-half to promote vigorous new stems. It may also be pruned after flowering to prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite Mugwort prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix containing garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand in equal parts will create the best conditions for growth.
RepottingWhite Mugwort should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The best time for repotting is in the spring.
Humidity & MistingWhite Mugwort is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate humidity. There's no need for special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep White Mugwort in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant White Mugwort in full sun to partial shade with good soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleArtemisia lactiflora, commonly known as White Mugwort, begins its life as a seed that germinates in spring when soil temperatures rise and moisture is adequate. The seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic deeply cut, dark green leaves. Throughout the growing season, it forms a robust clump of foliage, and by mid to late summer, it produces tall stems crowned with panicles of creamy-white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers turn into small seed heads that disperse seeds in late fall. With the arrival of winter, the above-ground portion of the plant dies back, while the root system remains dormant until the return of warmer weather. The plant is a perennial, so it will regrow from the rootstock in subsequent years, repeating the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For Artemisia lactiflora, also known as White Mugwort, the most popular method of propagation is by division. The best time to divide this plant is in the spring, just as new growth is beginning to appear. Gardeners should carefully dig up the parent plant, ensuring that they maintain a good amount of root structure for each division. They will then need to separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy network of roots. These sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil with adequate space between each new plant to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the new plantings thoroughly to encourage root establishment. The newly planted divisions should be monitored closely and kept consistently moist for the first few weeks until they are well established in their new locations.
