Feverfew Herbaceous Perennial in the Garden
Flowers and Leaves are Aromatic and Used in Herbal Medicines
Jul 17, 2009
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), a member of the Asteraceae family, is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is sometimes listed as Chrysanthemum parthenium, and was once known as Featherfew in reference to its leaves. The name Feverfew refers to the belief that it helped relieve fevers.
Feverfew Leaves and Flowers are Strongly Aromatic
Foliage of Feverfew is grayish-green and toothed. Alternate and hairless, the oval lobed leaves can be up to about three inches long. They are divided into leaflets that are also divided, and have the texture of fine velvet. Their scent is quite strong, especially when brushed against or crushed.
Flowers of Feverfew appear in July and August. Daisy-like with white rays and yellow centers that are almost flat, they measure about one-inch in diameter. They form a mass over the entire plant at the peak of blossoming. The hermaphrodite flowers (having both male and female organs) are pollinated by bees and flies. Sprays of the flowers are wonderful fillers in bouquets.
This herbaceous perennial will grow to a height of twenty-four inches. Stems are upright, finely furrowed, and branching. Gardeners often pinch them back until the end of May to prevent legginess. When not pinched back, the plant has the appearance of a shrub.
Habitat, Growing Conditions, and Care
The natural habitat is mountain scrub areas, rocky slopes, and some areas where nothing else will grow. A lovely garden specimen, its main requirements are well-drained soil, regular watering at the base, and a sunny location. Feverfew tolerates bad weather, high winds, and poor soil. It has been successfully grown in old walls. Rabbits and deer avoid it, probably because of its aroma.
Feverfew spreads rapidly and will cover a large area within a few years. That is an ideal situation when a meadow effect is desired. It self sows rampantly and needs to be deadheaded regularly for control in a small garden. ‘Volunteers’ can be easily removed or transplanted. Hardy to at least zone four, Feverfew is usually free from diseases and pests. Propagation can be achieved with softwood cuttings or ripened seeds planted in the fall. To encourage new growth, prune the stems back when flowering is finished.
The cultivar ‘Aureum’ is a smaller plant, and has golden-green leaves. It is sometimes called ‘Golden Feather’ Feverfew. If grown in full shade, it will not produce flowers, but offers a nice contrast to other plants. Many other cultivars are available that have double or pompom-like flowers.
Feverfew Herbal Medicines, Insecticide, and Essential Oil
Feverfew is a traditional herb used medicinally for thousands of years. It has gained a good reputation during the past thirty years or so, and said to be beneficial in treatment of some ailments.
Consult with a knowledgeable practitioner before treating with this or any wild herb. This fact sheet from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine “provides basic information about uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.”
To make an insecticide, steep one cupful of dried flowers in one litre (about five cups) of hot, soapy water for about one hour. Strain, and cool the mixture before using.
An essential oil of Tanacetum parthenium is used in perfumery.
Gardeners may find that sometimes, regardless of care and weather, Feverfew has disappeared from its place in the garden. If they look around, they’re sure to find some ‘volunteers’. The large plant shown in the attached photographs has stayed where it was planted three years ago.
Reference:
"Taunton Fine Gardening Website"
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
