Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium

Bachelor's buttons (double form), Maids, Maithes, Pale maids, Pellitory

1/5

Feverfew is a compact perennial herb with citrus-scented leaves and small daisy-like flowers. It has traditionally been cultivated as a medicinal plant and is commonly used to prevent migraine headaches. Feverfew is also an excellent insect repellent and often planted along the edges of plant beds.

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Fruiting time

Autumn

Harvesting

Leaves and flowers can be harvested throughout the year. Cut the feverfew when the flowers are in full bloom. Tie the feverfew bundle at its stems with some twine and hang the bundle upside down to dry it. Feverfew will dry out best in a dark, airy and dry place.

Propagation

Seed

Start by planting the seeds indoors in containers in late winter and set out the seedlings in spring. Taking them outdoors, set plants at least 30 cm apart in all directions.

Cuttings

Cuttings should be made from the young shoots that start from the base of the plant. Insert into soil during Spring while cool.

Division

To propagate by division, lift the plants whenever the roots are in an active condition. With a sharp spade, divide them into three or five fairly large pieces.