Family: Asteraceae
Common Name: Tansy, Feverfew

Amongst this group of around 70 species of aro­matic annuals, perennials and subshrubs are several cultivated over the centuries for medici­nal use and as insecticides. A number of species are grown purely as ornamentals today, although some are still widely grown for use in herbal teas, for flavoring, and for their insect-deterrent properties.

Species

T. balsamita, alecost or costmary, zone 6, is grown for its very aromatic foliage (see entry under Costmary).

T. coccineum, zone 5, is an herbaceous perennial, 40-70 cm (16-28 in) high, with fine, feathery foliage and masses of daisy-like flowers, in early summer. This species has several cultivars, all making good cut flow­ers.

T. parthenium, feverfew, zone 6, is a short-lived perennial, to about 45-60 cm (18-24 in), often grown as an annual. It flowers profusely in summer, the entire plant being covered with small, white, yellow-centered, daisy-type flow­ers. Leaves may be lobed or divided. This species can self-seed freely. Cultivars of T. partheniurn are available. All parts of the plant are strongly aromatic and it has been cul­tivated for centuries for tonics and for reducing fever.

T. vulgare, common tansy, zone 4, to 60-90 cm (24-36 in) high, is popular. It has feathery foliage and flat clusters of round, yellow flowers during summer. The leaves are said to smell like lemon and camphor. Tansy has a long history of use as an insect-repellent and is reputed to rid dogs of fleas. It has a number of culinary uses, as well as its many applications in folk medicine.

Cultivation

All species are best grown in full sun. Any type of soil is suitable, as long as it is well drained. Cut back the perennials in autumn or early spring (but with T. coccineum, after the first flush of flowers), to encourage more blooms. Propagate from seed in spring, under glass. Perennials can be propagated by divi­sion in early spring, or from soft, basal cut­tings or softwood cuttings in spring or early summer.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.