Tansyleaf Tansyaster (Machaeranthera tanacetifolia)

Tansyleaf Tansyaster

Tansyleaf Tansyaster (Machaeranthera tanacetifolia) is an annual wildflower native to North America that floods roadsides and fields in a dazzling arrays of purple flowers every spring. It has a pervasive root system and is commonly used in erosion control projects. The company Burpee Seed has been selling packets of tansyleaf Tansyaster seeds for over 140 years!

Scientific classification

Species

Tansyleaf Tansyaster (Machaeranthera tanacetifolia)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

23 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Yellow, Lavender

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Tansyleaf Tansyaster

Attributes of Tansyleaf Tansyaster

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, tansyleaf Tansyaster vigorously sprouts during Spring, pacing its development to maximize on available sunlight and warmth. The expeditious growth leads to an abundance of tansy-like leaves and a noticeable height increase. By Summer, this rush subsides to cater to energy-expensive flowering, a horticultural spectacle of cascading aster-like blooms. Notably, tansyleaf Tansyaster's rapid growth pattern may diverge amidst varying seasons, but it's particularly pronounced during Spring and Summer.

Distribution of Tansyleaf Tansyaster

Distribution Map

Tansyleaf Tansyaster is originally native to major regions in North America, with a presence established particularly in parts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. This species has been introduced and cultivated in various suitable habitats beyond its native range, adapting to a variety of temperate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Abundant in sandy soils in the Plains Country and Trans-Pecos, rarely east to stream beds of the Edwards Plateau, SD to Alberta, Canada south to north central Mexico

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Loyal love, Gentleness, Innocence

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Tansyleaf Tansyaster

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tansyleaf Tansyaster thrives in arid environments, adapting to drier conditions with a watering schedule of once every 1-2 weeks. It prefers well-draining soil and its water needs decrease during dormant periods, aligning with seasonal changes.

Fertilize: Tansyleaf Tansyaster thrives with balanced nutrition, using a monthly 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer during its growing season. High nitrogen boosts foliage but should be used sparingly. Adjust feeding with the seasons, reducing in winter, and always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Tansyleaf Tansyaster is a perennial herb with aromatic leaves and purple flowers. Prune in early spring to remove dead stems, improve airflow, and promote healthy growth. Regular pruning prevents legginess, encourages robust blooms, and enhances aesthetic appeal, using sharp, clean tools to avoid disease.

Propagation: Tansyleaf Tansyaster is a resilient wildflower thriving in diverse environments. For best results, use fresh seeds in well-draining soil, keeping it moderately moist. It prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Minimal care is needed after establishment, making tansyleaf Tansyaster ideal for low-maintenance gardening.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free