Mugwort is a tall, floppy open growing plant, native to Asia. It has naturalized throughout the U.S., especially around creeks and waterways. It is a plant steeped (literally!) in folklore and history. There were many superstitions connected with it: it was believed to preserve the wayfarer from fatigue, sunstroke, wild beasts and evil spirits generally: a crown made from its sprays was worn on St. John's Eve to gain security from evil possession. It has been used in the preparation of moxa, and before the use of hops young dried branches were steeped in beer for flavoring. It is used to make dream pillows and in some smoking blends.
It can be a very invasive weed, spreading both by seed and underground runners. Grow this species if you know you will be harvesting and using it frequently. It prefers sun or afternoon shade, and although it is drought tolerant you will get larger leaves with average garden water.