Feverfew - Tanacetum parthenium (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Feverfew

Also known as: Featherfoil

The feverfew herb has been used in traditional and folk medicine to treat a wide range of medical issues. This flowering plant from Eurasia is also grown as an ornamental. Because the flower heads are long-lasting, they make excellent cut flowers and can also be used in dried floral arrangements. This plant tends to draw butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.

Scientific classification

Species

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Feverfew

Distribution of Feverfew

Distribution Map

Feverfew is native to parts of Eurasia. Its introduction has been widespread, being cultivated in all of the continents bar Antarctica. Feverfew's native ecosystem is rocky and mountainous slopes and scrubs and wastelands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountain scrub, Rocky slopes, Walls, Waste places, Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a very common herbaceous perennial grown ornamentally for its clustered daisy-like flowers which attract bees, birds, and butterflies. Since it grows in clumps, this plant is best grouped in flower beds and borders in informal and cottage gardens. Herbs like thyme and mint pair well with feverfew.

Symbolism

Protection, healing, you light up my life

Interesting Facts

One of the active chemical ingredients in feverfew is called parthenolide. Parthenolide is interesting to the scientific community. It has been shown to kill some cancerous cells grown in laboratory dishes.

Name Story

Feverfew: Yellow flower-balls matching with white petals give the appearance of a small sun. As for why it is called feverfew, the word feverfew is derived from febrifugia, meaning fever reducer. It is because people used to use it as an anti-inflammatory drug for fever, although it is no longer used. However, the name, feverfew is still being used up till now.

Bachelor buttons: This flower is a classic boutonniere flower although it not used that often in the present. There is a story behind the name of bachelor buttons. If any bachelors have feelings for someone and want to date that person, they will wear them, and if the flowers blossom, this means that their love will be fruitful.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Feverfew, including the following common varieties :

Feverfew 'Aureum'

Toxicity

Feverfew is mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. All parts of the plant can cause adverse reactions if ingested in high quantities, with symptoms including gastrointestinal upset and discomfort. Pet owners should be vigilant and seek immediate veterinary assistance if there's any suspicion of ingestion to ensure their pet's health.

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Quickly Identify Feverfew

Feathery, fern-like green leaves with pinnately lobed structure and hairy undersides.

Clusters of white to creamy petals around a central yellow disc in daisy-like flowers.

Pubescent towards stem tips, glabrous at the base, reaching 1-3 feet (30-90 cm).

Small daisy-like flowers with 10-30 white petals and compact, charming appearance.

Head of small, ribbed seeds, self-seeding, 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches) long.

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Care Guide for Feverfew

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Feverfew thrives in well-drained soils and prefers consistent hydration without waterlogging. Water once a week to maintain health. It benefits from natural rainfall during active growth, balancing moderate moisture without the extremes of high humidity or aridity.

Fertilize: For feverfew, use balanced fertilizers quarterly to promote growth and blooms, adjusting frequency seasonally. Apply evenly without touching foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing to protect roots and soil ecology. A slow-release format offers consistent nutrients, ensuring feverfew remains vigorous and healthy.

Pruning: Feverfew features delicate white blooms and aromatic foliage. Prune from early to late spring by removing damaged stems and thinning crowded branches. Deadheading spent flowers promotes blooming, while trimming up to one-third aids bushier growth. Regular pruning enhances aesthetics and overall health.

Propagation: Propagate feverfew by sowing seeds in Spring, as its propagation is easy. Healthy seedlings indicate success. Provide abundant sunlight and well-draining soil for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot feverfew every 2-3 years in spring to promote growth. Use a slightly larger container with fresh soil and good drainage. Water sparingly after repotting and ensure consistent moisture without waterlogging for optimal health.

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Images of Feverfew

Distribution of Feverfew

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Feverfew

Care Guide for Feverfew

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