Mugwort – Tree

Description

Usually available: All year

Life cycle: Perennial
Height: 1 – 2m
Position: Sun / part shade
Soil preference: Well drained

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Mugwort – Tree (Artemisia arborescens)

Discover the versatile and beneficial Mugwort Tree (Artemisia arborescens), a must-have for any garden enthusiast or natural remedy seeker. This attractive and aromatic shrub is not only a beautiful addition to your landscape but also offers a wide range of uses, from culinary to medicinal.

Garden Use

The Mugwort Tree is an excellent choice for Australian gardens, thriving in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Its silvery-green, finely divided foliage adds a unique texture and color to your garden, making it a perfect backdrop for colorful flowering plants. The plant is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it ideal for water-wise gardens.

Medicinal Use

Mugwort has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves and flowers contain compounds that may help alleviate digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and anxiety. Mugwort is also known for its potential to promote vivid dreams and enhance lucid dreaming when consumed as a tea or placed under your pillow.

Culinary Use

The young leaves of the Mugwort Tree can be used to add a unique, slightly bitter flavor to various dishes. They are particularly popular in Asian cuisine, where they are used to wrap rice cakes or flavor meats. The leaves can also be dried and used as a seasoning or tea.

Other Uses

Mugwort has been traditionally used as an insect repellent, making it a natural choice for keeping pests away from your garden. The plant’s aromatic properties also make it suitable for use in potpourris, sachets, and incense blends.

Growing Conditions and Climate

In Australia, the Mugwort Tree is well-suited to growing in USDA zones 7-10. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay loams. The plant is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

Interesting Facts

• In ancient times, Mugwort was believed to have magical properties and was used in various rituals and ceremonies.
• The plant’s genus name, Artemisia, is derived from the Greek goddess Artemis, who was associated with the moon, hunting, and childbirth.
• Mugwort is a valuable nectar source for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

Companion Plants

Mugwort Tree pairs well with other drought-tolerant, sun-loving plants such as:

• Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
• Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Add the Mugwort Tree to your garden today and enjoy its numerous benefits, from its attractive appearance to its diverse uses in cooking, natural remedies, and more.