Flower - Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) Organically grown - Non GMO - Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Flower - Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) Organically grown - Non GMO - Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Common Names: Tansy, Common Tansy, Sweet Joe-Pye
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Eurasia and North America, and it is well-known for its feathery, aromatic foliage and bright yellow, button-like flowers. Tansy can grow up to 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) tall and has a bushy, upright growth habit. Its leaves are deeply lobed, and the plant produces dense clusters of small, yellow flowers in late summer and early fall, making it a striking addition to any herb or wildflower garden. Tansy has a strong, pungent scent when crushed, which has contributed to its reputation as a natural pest repellent.
Healing Properties
Tansy has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in traditional and folk medicine. It has the following potential healing properties:
• Anti-inflammatory: Used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation, particularly for conditions like arthritis.
• Antimicrobial: Historically used to treat infections, particularly in cases of wounds or digestive issues.
• Digestive aid: Tansy has been used in folk medicine to treat digestive complaints, including bloating and indigestion.
• Anthelmintic: Tansy has been known to help expel intestinal worms, though it should only be used under professional guidance due to toxicity concerns.
• Menstrual aid: It has been used traditionally to help regulate menstrual cycles, but it should be used cautiously and under the advice of a healthcare professional.
Growing Instructions from Seed
Germination Time & Rate
• Germination Time: 10-20 days
• Germination Rate: 70-85% under optimal conditions.
Step-by-Step Growing Guide for Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
1. Seed Stratification
Tansy seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification to improve germination, especially if you’re starting them in spring.
• Method: Place the seeds in a sealed plastic bag with moist sand or peat moss. Store the bag in a refrigerator (around 40°F or 4°C) for 30-60 days. This mimics the winter conditions that the seeds would experience in their natural habitat.
2. Sowing the Seeds
• Timing: Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date, or sow directly outdoors in early spring after the danger of frost has passed.
• Seed Depth: Sow seeds about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep.
• Soil: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix or light, sandy soil. Tansy prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
• Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy during the germination period.
• Light: Provide bright, indirect light for seedling growth. Tansy seeds do not require light for germination, but young seedlings will thrive with good light.
3. Transplanting to Outdoor Garden
• Timing: After the last frost, when the outdoor soil temperature is above 60°F (15°C) and seedlings are large enough to handle (typically 4-6 weeks after sowing).
• Hardening Off: Gradually acclimate your indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days by placing them in a shaded area during the day and moving them indoors at night.
• Planting Depth: Transplant seedlings to their permanent outdoor site at the same depth as they were in their pots.
4. Spacing and Site Selection
• Spacing: Space plants about 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart to allow for their bushy growth habit.
• Sun Requirements: Tansy thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral, loamy soil. While it is adaptable to a range of soil types, Tansy grows best in moderately fertile soil.
5. Care and Maintenance
• Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. Tansy is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
• Fertilizing: Tansy generally does not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, organic fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to weak, leggy plants.
• Pruning: Remove dead or spent flowers to encourage additional blooming. Cut back the plant in early spring before new growth appears to maintain its shape and encourage fresh foliage.
• Support: While Tansy is generally a sturdy plant, it can become top-heavy when flowering. If necessary, stake or support the plant to prevent it from flopping over.
6. Harvesting
• Flowers: Harvest the small, yellow flowers when they are in full bloom for use in dried arrangements or herbal preparations.
• Leaves: The aromatic leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season for use in culinary or medicinal applications, though care should be taken not to overharvest, as the plant needs some foliage to thrive.
7. Pests and Diseases
Tansy is fairly pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or flea beetles. Keep an eye on the plants, especially during warm, dry periods. It is also susceptible to fungal issues like powdery mildew in overly humid environments, so ensure good air circulation around the plant. Tansy is also known to repel many pests, making it an excellent companion plant.
Height and Growth Habit
• Height: Grows 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) tall.
• Width: Can spread 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
• Growth Habit: Bushy and upright with feathery, aromatic foliage and yellow, button-like flowers in dense clusters.
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a resilient and useful plant that can add color, texture, and health benefits to any garden. Its attractive yellow flowers, coupled with its medicinal and pest-repelling properties, make it a popular choice for both ornamental and functional gardens. Easy to grow from seed with proper care, Tansy thrives in full sun and moderately fertile, well-drained soil. While it can be toxic if consumed in large quantities, it has a long history of traditional use, making it a fascinating plant for gardeners interested in both beauty and herbal remedies.
Seed Count: 1gr