The study identified key transcription factors governing the development of T-shaped non-glandular trichomes (TSTs) in Artemisia argyi by comparing RNA‑seq profiles of TST‑bearing and non‑TST tissue, highlighting the AarMIXTA gene family as central regulators. Overexpressing AarMIXTA1.2 in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana markedly increased TST density, suggesting a positive regulatory role of these MIXTA genes in trichome formation and providing insights for high‑yield moxa floss cultivation.