Tansy herb and Tansy medicinal

Tansy is a native to Europe and Asia, and it has managed to become naturalized elsewhere, especially in North America. The name derives from the Greek athanasia, meaning immorality. In ancient times it was used in the preparation of the embalming sheets and rubbed on corpses to save them from earthworms or corpse worm.

Species

Tanacetum vulgare

Tansy

Hardy perennial. Ht 90cm (3ft), spread 30-60cm (1 -2ft) and more. Yellow button flowers in late summer. The aromatic leaf is deeply indented, toothed and fairly dark green.

Tanacetum vulgare var. crispum

Curled tansy

As T. vulgare except Ht 60cm (24in) and the aromatic leaf is crinkly, curly and dark green.

Tanacetum vulgare Tsala Gold'

Tansy Isala gold

As T. vulgare except Ht 60cm (24in) and the leaf is golden in color.

Tanacetum vulgare 'Silver Lace'

Tansy 'silver lace'

As T. vulgare except Ht 60cm (24in) and the leaf starts off white-flecked with green, progressing to full green. If, however, you keep cutting it, some of the variegation can be maintained.

Cultivation

Propagation

Seed

Sow the very small seed in spring or autumn in a prepared seed or plug tray and cover with Perlite. Germination takes 10-21 days. Plant out 45cm (18in) apart when the seedlings are large enough to handle. If sown in the autumn, over-winter under protection.

Division

All species produce root runners, so divide in spring or autumn.

Pests and Diseases

Tansy is rarely bothered with pests or disease.

Maintenance

Spring: Sow seed. Divide established clumps.

Summer: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and color.

Autumn: Divide established clumps. Sow seeds.

Winter: The plant is fully hardy and dies back into the ground for winter.

Garden cultivation

Tansy needs to be positioned with care as the roots spread widely. The gold and variegated forms are much less invasive and very attractive in a semi-shaded border. They tolerate most conditions provided the soil is not completely wet.

Harvest

Pick leaves as required. Gather flowers when open.

Container growing

Because of its antisocial habit, container growing is recommended. Use soil-based compost and a large container, water throughout the growing season, and only feed about twice during flowering. In winter keep on , the dry side in a cool place.

Other uses

Rub into the coat of your dog or cat to prevent fleas. Hang leaves indoors to deter flies. Put dried sprigs under carpets. Add to insect repellent sachets. Sprinkle chopped leaves and flowers to deter ants and mice. It produces a yellow/green woolen dye.

Medicinal

Can be used by trained herbalists to expel roundworm and threadworm. Use tansy tea externally to treat scabies, and as a compress to bring relief to painful rheumatic joints.