Artemisia mexicana

Willd.

Mexican mugwort

Asteraceae Edible: Leaves - spice Potential hazards — see below 172 iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist· cc-by

iNaturalist· cc-by-nc

Summary

A perennial growing to 1 m (3 ft 3 in) tall. Hermaphroditic and wind-pollinated. Prefers light sandy and medium loamy well-drained soils in neutral to basic pH. Requires full sun. Adapts to both dry and moist soil with good drought tolerance.

Description

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Emmenagogue Miscellany Poultice Stimulant Vermifuge The plant is emmenagogue, stimulant and vermifuge. The leaves can be chewed to treat sore throats. A poultice of the chewed leaves can be used on sores.

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, skin contact with some members of this genus can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some people.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Mexico, North America, USA,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Easily grown in a well-drained circumneutral or slightly alkaline loamy soil, preferring a warm sunny dry position. Established plants are drought tolerant. Plants are longer lived, more hardy and more aromatic when they are grown in a poor dry soil. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.

Propagation

Seed - surface sow from late winter to early summer in a greenhouse, making sure that the compost does not dry out. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring or autumn. Basal cuttings in late spring. Harvest the young shoots when about10 - 15cm long, pot up in a lightly shaded position in a greenhouse or cold frame and plant them out when well rooted. Very easy.