Tanacetum
A diverse group of short-lived, hardy herbaceous perennials with attractive daisy-like flowers. Originally part of the Chrysanthemum family they are often grown as annuals. Native species can often be found growing wild in the countryside.
Family: Asteraceae (Daisy)
Botanical Name: Tanacetum
Common Names: Tansy, pyrethrum, painted daisy
Foliage: Deciduous, simple or finely divided, pungent leaves.
Flowers: Single or clustered, daisy-like or button-like blooms.
Flowering Period: Summer to early autumn.
Soil: Moist but well drained or well drained soil (chalk, clay, sand or loam). Acid, alkaline or neutral pH.
Conditions: Full sun. Plant in an east, west or south facing aspect.
Habit: Columnar, upright.
Type: Annuals or herbaceous perennials.
Origin: Europe, Africa, Asia and North America.
Hardiness: Most varieties are fully hardy in the UK.
Planting and Growing Tanacetum
Easy to grow. Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil, in full sun. Most prefer light, dry soils. Excellent front to mid border perennial. Ideal for raised beds or containers. Good cottage garden plant.
Excellent long-lasting cut flowers.
Taking Care of Tanacetum
Water regularly while growing and support tall varieties on exposed sites.
Pruning Tanacetum
Dead head regularly to prolong flowering and prevent self seeding.
Pests and Diseases
Generally pest and disease free.
Propagating Tanacetum
Sow seeds of annuals and perennials under glass in spring.
Divide established clumps of perennials in March. Alternatively, take shoot-tip cuttings in April-September.
Popular Varieties of Tanacetum
Tanacetum coccineum (pyrethrum) is a cheerful border perennial with medium to large daisy-like flowers. Height from 18in to 3ft (45 to 90cm), depending on variety. At one time a wide selection of individual cultivars were available but pyrethrum is now usually sold as a mixture, in single or double flowers. For sale at Thompson & Morgan.
Tanacetum haradjanii produces a dense carpet of finely divided, silver leaves. Clusters of tiny yellow flowers in August. Excellent for rock gardens. Height 6-8in (15-20cm), spread 12in (30cm).
Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) is a popular wild perennial form that produces masses of small flowers above light green leaves, with a pungent aroma. Height to 12in (30cm). Self-seeds prolifically. For sale at Crocus. The golden-leaved version 'Aureum' (Golden Feverfew) is popular variety that forms a clump with sprays of small white daisies.
Tanacetum vulgare (tansy) is an erect perennial with bright-green, finely cut aromatic leaves. Clusters of bright-yellow, button-like flowers in August-September. Height 2-3ft (60-90cm), spread 2ft (60cm) or more. For sale at Crocus. Variety 'Crispum' is an ornamental form with curled leaves.