Report an Invasive Species
wnyprism@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878.4708
X
CONTACT US
Great Lakes Center, SAMC 319
SUNY Buffalo State
1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222
wnyprism@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878.4708
SUBSCRIBE TO LISTSERV
FOLLOW US
CONTACT
Artemisia vulgaris Leaves, Photo Credit: Ohio State Weed Lab Archive, The Ohio State University, www.bugwood.org
Mugwort
COMMON NAME:
MugwortSCIENTIFIC NAME:
Artemisia vulgarisORIGIN:
EuropeDESCRIPTION:
Mugwort is a perennial herb that grows 2-5 ft. tall. The upper surface of the alternate leaves are dark green and smooth, while the undersides are silvery and hairy. Its leaves are variable in shape. Stems are angular with longitudinal ridges and range in color from green to purple. It flowers in late summer to early fall.HABITAT:
Mugwort frequents disturbed sites such as pastures, forest edges, ditches, restoration areas, roadsides and steep slopes.THREAT:
Mugwort outcompetes native plants for nutrients and sunlight. They spread by rhizomes and often create large colonies.MANAGEMENT:
Due to their substantial root systems and ability to re-sprout from root fragments, manual removal can be difficult. Solid patches may be covered using biotech fabric (or other tarp-like mats) for a few years, which may significantly weaken the plant, allowing for other removal methods to be more effective. Some herbicides have been found to be effective, however options are limited.
WNY PRISM PRIORITY:
Tier 4 - Local Control
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Mugwort is a prohibited species in New York State - for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.
NYS Prohibited and Regulated Species - Part 575:
PATHWAYS OF INVASION:
Mugwort was introduced to North America by European settlers as a medicinal herb. Mugwort primarily spreads through its rhizome system.
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:
Widespread