Feverfew
Tanacetum parthenium
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Description
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a perennial herbaceous plant recognized for its daisy-like flowers and aromatic leaves. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it serves as an excellent companion plant due to its ability to attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs, which help control aphid populations. Feverfew is also known to deter pests such as mosquitoes and certain beetles. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations, enhancing biodiversity and resilience in natural farming systems. Historically, feverfew has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in treating migraines and headaches. In a food forest, feverfew can be part of the herbaceous layer, contributing to soil health and plant diversity. It pairs well with plants like yarrow and chamomile, which share similar growing conditions and ecological functions.
Growing Details
Feverfew is best grown in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers fertile loam but can tolerate poorer soils. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and chamomile, which share similar growing conditions. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in shaded areas, which can lead to poor growth. Harvest leaves before flowering for
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Tanacetum parthenium</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 southeastern Europe, but widely cul
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: Feverfew leaves can be consumed in small quantities, often used in herbal teas. They have a bitter taste and are not commonly used as a food source. The leaves should be harvested before flowering for the best flavor.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Feverfew is widely used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly known for its effectiveness in preventing migraines and headaches. The leaves contain parthenolide, a compound believed to contribute to these effects. It is typically consumed as a tea or in capsule form. Caution is advised as it can cause mouth ulcers if chewed fresh.
health concerns: Feverfew can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Long-term use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and joint pain.
other uses: Feverfew can be used as a natural insect repellent and is sometimes included in potpourri for its aromatic properties. It can also be used in companion planting to deter pests.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Tanacetum parthenium
common names: Feverfew; Bachelor's Buttons; Featherfew
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe: Anthemideae
sub tribe:
genus: Tanacetum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Feverfew is best grown in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers fertile loam but can tolerate poorer soils. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and chamomile, which share similar growing conditions. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in shaded areas, which can lead to poor growth. Harvest leaves before flowering for
Potential Disturbances: Feverfew is generally resistant to pressures but can occasionally suffer from aphids and leaf miners. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to manage aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel leaf miners. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for these challenges.
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