Description
Tanacetum parthenium (Chrysanthemum Parthenium or Pyrethrum Parthenium) | Feverfew
Feverfew, also known as Featherfew, Matricaria, Pale Maids, pellitory altamisa, featherfoil, febrifuge plant, midsummer daisy, Santa Maria, wild quinine, federfoy, flirtwort, European feverfew, feather-fully, feddygen, flirtroot, maith, and grande chamomile, is a short lived perennial medicinal herb that forms shrubby mounds up to 2′ tall of ferny, light-green foliage and produces masses of small, charming, non-double, daisy-like white flowers with yellow centers. Plants are highly fragrant with some bitter aromatics that are not appreciated by all, and in fact, repel some insects, while attracting others like hoverflies and butterflies. For this reason, it is sometimes planted as a deterrant-plant to ward off certain pests. Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to part shade.
Will self-sow, Deadhead to prevent self-seeding.
Leaves have been used for centuries for fevers, migraines, arthritis, stomach aches, and to lower temperature and cool the body.
As a cut flower this variety has a more intense fragrance and less dense flower clusters compared to improved versions or hybrids. The dried flowers can additionally be used in flower arrangements.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Mature height: 18-24 inches
Mature width: 18-24 inches
Hardiness zones: 5-9