Tanacetum

This hardy perennial, commonly called Tansy, has been used over the centuries for treating various medical ailments and was traditionally used as an insect repellent. The leaves and flowers were once added to Lenten pancakes to give a bitter flavor that was meant to remind diners of suffering and sacrifice. Tansy can be toxic. Never eat it in large amounts or drink strong tisanes made from it. This lanky plant grows wild throughout Europe and has escaped from cultivation in North America. It grows 3 to 4 feet high and has finely divided, feathery leaves. After mid-summer, it bears flat clusters of many small yellow flowers resembling buttons; they bloom for many weeks.

Pot Cultivation

Young plants are transplanted outdoors after there is no danger from frost. They are grown in full sun and regular garden soil. Place purchased plants in the garden from late summer through fall. Cut off freshly opened flowers. Dried flowers and leaves can be used in potpourris or layered between clothes to repel insects. You can make a weak tisane. Cut and hang the long flower stems for everlasting flowers.

Propagation

Seeds should be started indoors, early in the spring and eventually transferred to the garden. The clumps can be divided in the fall and spring and replanted.

T. vulgare

VARIETIES

• T. vulgare (the common Tansy) & variety crispum (smaller, more finely divided foliage);
• T. Herderi (rare dwarf w/ silvery foliage).