Tanacetum vulgare

Tanacetum vulgare, also known as the common Tansy, is a weedy, aromatic perennial native to temperate Europe and Asia.  Bright-yellow button-like flowers carrying a sweet scent dazzle the senses whilst towering above luxurious fern-like foliage.  Named after the Greek word for immortality, athanatos, Tansy is a resilient and prolific plant.  In fact, Tansy plants are so irrepressible and fast-spreading that they are considered one of the worst invasive species in North America.  If you plan on growing Tansy in your garden, it is advised to deadhead or shear off blooms as they fade to prevent self-seeding.  Despite serious toxicity concerns, the aboveground parts of the Tansy plant are used to make medicines that treat digestive tract problems, including stomach and intestinal ulcers, certain gallbladder conditions, stomach spasms, and poor appetite.  

Common Tansy is a low-maintenance plant that should require very little care on the part of the gardener.  Plant Tansy where they can receive continuous sunlight throughout the day for optimal growth, but they can grow in semi-shaded areas.  Well-draining, fertile garden soil is ideal for Tansy plants, but they will grow in most soil conditions.  Regular watering is not necessary, as Tansy have high drought tolerance.  Cutting the plants to the ground every year can help keep their growth under control, as can deadheading before the flowers produce seeds.  To remove the plant, it is necessary need to dig deep enough to excavate the rhizome completely.  If you are growing raspberries, blackberries, or grapes, planting Tansy nearby can help deter pests like cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and Japanese beetles.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Tanacetum Vulgare

Tanacetum vulgare

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