Tanacetum vulgare COMMON TANSY (plant)

Common Tansy is a fast-growing, aromatic perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe, it grows very easily in gardens. It reaches a height of 80 cm by late summer and has a bushy growth habit.

Its foliage is characterized by deeply divided, often dark green leaves. The leaves are alternate along the stem and are highly aromatic when crushed. They are lobed with serrated edges and can reach up to 30 cm in length.

The flowers appear in summer, between June and September. They form dense corymbs, with flowers shaped like small clustered heads. Each head can measure up to 1.5 cm in diameter and is composed of yellow flowers.

Tansy seeds come from the Tanacetum vulgare; they are tiny, elongated, and brown or black in color. Being very small, they are easily dispersed by the wind over long distances. The seeds are very easy to sow in fine, humus-rich soil after being stratified for one month.

- Uses:

Tansy contains a varying proportion of pyrethrin, a natural insecticide. In biological pest control, it is an excellent insecticide against whiteflies, aphids, and moths.

Ferment 1 kg of fresh leaves in 10 L of rainwater. Use undiluted during dry and windless weather.

Tansy is also a very effective repellent against ticks. You can rub its leaves on your wrists, neck, and ankles. Ticks and mosquitoes detest its scent.

Known for its medicinal properties, it is often used in herbal medicine to relieve menstrual pain and digestive disorders. Its leaves are also used in infusions to soothe headaches.
Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

Tansy is an excellent, versatile plant with numerous applications.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the tansy in a 3-liter pot with horticultural soil, just above the root collar, or directly in the ground in the garden.
• Ensure the bottom of the pot is well-drained with clay pebbles before planting.
• Water generously at the base of the plant.
• Place the pot in a very bright location.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It grows very well in any substrate; however, it will grow faster in well-draining soil rich in humus and organic matter.

- Watering / Irrigation:

This plant does not require frequent watering except at the time of planting. Watering once or twice a week in summer during high heat will be sufficient for proper development.

- Exposure / Light:

This highly fragrant variety requires a lot of light; it should be placed in full sun for optimal growth. For artificial lighting, HPS bulbs or MH growth lamps are preferred.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It thrives when temperatures range from 15 to 25°C. Thanks to its very hardy nature, tansy easily withstands strong negative temperatures down to -20°C. Its USDA hardiness zone is 3-9.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

It can be easily reproduced either by stem cuttings during the summer, by dividing the clumps in late spring, or by sowing seeds in early spring.

- Pests / Diseases:

It is a very resistant plant that is rarely subject to fungal attacks or garden pests.

- Maintenance:

Prune the dry parts at the base of the plant starting in November.