Tanacetum cinerariifolium Seeds | Pyrethrum Chrysanthemum
LATIN NAME: Tanacetum cinerariifolium
COMMON NAME: Dalmatian Pyrethrum
Plant Profile
Dalmatian Pyrethrum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) is a low, upright, perennial in the daisy family. Walk past pyrethrum in full flower and daisies look gentle enough, but the whole plant packs a fine, sharp wallop for the insects. Low, upright, perennial plant carries finely cut, feathery, grey-green leaves and many white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centres through summer, and dried flower heads have a very long record as plant pest powder of old gardens. Plant is a fine, bright presence of border and herb garden. The flowering period doubles as a feeding season for bees and other pollinators. For the gardener, the sum of these traits is a plant that is easy to live with.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the daisy family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Pyrethrum is a useful, studied subject of plant science, looked at for fine, sharp compounds of flower heads. A long cultivation history means growers know what to expect from it.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Dalmatian Pyrethrum for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Pyrethrum has a long, practical record in garden and the trade. White, daisy-like flowers open through summer, and dried flower heads have a very long record as fine, sharp pest powder of old gardens and modern natural crop care, breaking down fast in light and the air. Plant is a bright, generous presence of border and herb garden, drawing bees while powder keeps pests at bay. Routine care after establishment is refreshingly light.
Tansy and feverfew are storied herbs: feverfew leaf has human-trial support for migraine prevention, while tansy is a strong insect-repelling strewing herb too toxic for internal use; pyrethrum, their cousin, yields the natural insecticide.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Dalmatian Pyrethrum, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Dalmatian Pyrethrum settles in quickly once it finds its footing. Sun, free drainage and a patient first year are all it really requires.
.jpg "Dalmatian Pyrethrum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) - picture 2")
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