Common Tansy
Tanacetum vulgare
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Description
Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, now naturalized in many parts of North America. It is characterized by its aromatic, fern-like leaves and clusters of small, button-like yellow flowers. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Common Tansy is valued for its ability to repel pests such as ants, mosquitoes, and flies, making it a useful companion plant in natural farming systems. Its dense growth habit can suppress weeds, contributing to soil health and biodiversity. In a food forest, it serves as a ground cover layer, providing habitat and nectar for beneficial insects like bees and predatory wasps. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its anthelmintic properties. However, care should be taken to manage its spread due to its invasive nature. The plant's leaves and flowers contain compounds that have been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, although caution is advised due to potential toxicity.
Growing Details
Common Tansy thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of soil types, including poor soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include marigolds and garlic, which can enhance pest-repelling properties. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper spacing to prevent fungal
Tags
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Tanacetum vulgare</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and Asia, naturalized in Nor
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of July for 60 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of April
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: Common Tansy is not commonly used as an edible plant due to its potential toxicity. Historically, it has been used in small amounts to flavor dishes, but this practice is not recommended due to the presence of thujone.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Common Tansy has been used for its anthelmintic properties to expel worms and parasites. It has also been used to treat digestive issues and as a topical treatment for skin conditions. However, its use should be approached with caution due to the presence of toxic compounds such as thujone. It should not be used by pregnant women or individuals with certain health conditions.
health concerns: Common Tansy contains thujone, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. It should not be consumed by pregnant women or individuals with certain health conditions.
other uses: Common Tansy can be used as a natural insect repellent and in composting to add nutrients to the soil. It has also been used historically as a dye plant.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Tanacetum vulgare</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Tanacetum vulgare
common names: Common Tansy; Bitter Buttons; Golden Button
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe: Anthemideae
sub tribe:
genus: Tanacetum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.5 m
max width: 1.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Common Tansy thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of soil types, including poor soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include marigolds and garlic, which can enhance pest-repelling properties. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper spacing to prevent fungal
Potential Disturbances: Common Tansy is generally resistant to pressures, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids and powdery mildew. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to manage aphid populations. Use neem oil or garlic spray as organic solutions for mildew. Planting tansy alongside marigolds can help.
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