Feverfew

Feverfew: variety and characteristics

Feverfew (Tanacetum vulgare) is a perennial herb of the Daisy family (Asteraceae). Feverfew is a perennial that flowers abundantly with decorative blooms similar to those of chamomile.

In natural medicine, an infusion of its leaves is used for complications in pregnancy (hence the name of the plant in Bulgarian).

It also stimulates menstruation and the expulsion of the placenta after birth.

This versatile plant is also used for rheumatic conditions, menopause symptoms and colds.

Feverfew is a medicinal and insecticidal plant with yellow button-like flowers; it repels ants and moths.

Key features

• Pack size: 0.2 g
• Sowing: March and April; transplants or direct
• Flowering: July and August
• Harvest: May – July
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Feverfew

Feverfew seeds are sown in March and April. The plants flower in July and August. The crop is harvested from May to July. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Feverfew

• Sowing method: seedlings or direct
• Depth: 0.5 cm
• Spacing: 25–30 cm
• Germination: 10–20 days at 18–22 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Sow on the surface of moist, well-drained seed compost, press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them. The ideal temperature is 18-21°C. Germination takes 5-21 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle, at 8 cm. pots. Acclimatise and plant out once the danger of frost has passed, 25 cm apart. Can be sown directly from April in well-prepared soil. Pinch out the growing tips and first leaves in May to create a bushier plant. Cut the plant back to ground level after the first frosts.

Undemanding.

Harvest and use

The flowering tops are dried.

Frequently asked questions

When should Feverfew be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March and April. Sowing method: seedlings or direct.