Origin
Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum, also known as yarrowleaf tansy, is a plant species native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It was later introduced to North America as an ornamental plant and is now naturalized in several regions of the United States and Canada.
Common Names
In addition to yarrowleaf tansy, Tanacetum bipinnatum is commonly referred to as lacy tansy, feathery tansy, and fernleaf tansy.
Uses
Tanacetum bipinnatum has both medicinal and ornamental uses. Historically, its leaves and flowers were used to make a tea to aid in digestion and alleviate fever, headaches, and menstrual cramps. However, caution is advised as the plant contains toxic compounds that can cause dermatitis and digestive distress if ingested in large quantities. As an ornamental plant, its delicate and fern-like leaves, as well as its clusters of bright yellow flowers, make it an attractive addition to gardens and borders.
General Appearance
Tanacetum bipinnatum is an herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet (60-120 cm). Its leaves are deeply divided into numerous feathery segments, giving them a lacy appearance. The leaves and stem are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces small, button-like flowers that are bright yellow in color and arranged in flat-topped clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Light
Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum requires full sunlight to grow properly. It is a tough plant that can tolerate extreme sunlight exposure without any damage. If the light is not adequate, the plant may grow spindly and weak.
Temperature
The plant grows well in a wide range of temperatures, from cool to hot. However, the ideal temperature range for Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum is between 20 and 25°C. The plant can withstand temperatures slightly below freezing, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures may damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum prefers well-draining soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it thrives best in sandy loam soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter and must have good drainage capacity. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but grows best with regular watering.
Cultivation Methods
The plant, Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum, can be cultivated in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It requires full sunlight to grow and can be grown in different types of soils such as loam, sand, and clay. The plant is perennial and can grow up to two feet in height with a spread of up to three feet wide. It is also a drought-tolerant plant and does not require much watering.
Watering Needs
Tanacetum bipinnatum requires infrequent watering, especially during the growing season. The plants should be watered at least once a week for the first few weeks after planting to ensure that the roots are established. Once established, the plant needs to be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as the plant can quickly die from root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization. A top-dressing of compost or aged manure once a year, preferably in the early spring, should be sufficient. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers. Therefore, it is important to use fertilizers sparingly and only when necessary.
Pruning
Tanacetum bipinnatum does not require much pruning, but it is advisable to trim the plant back after it has finished flowering. Doing this helps to prevent self-seeding and also promotes bushier growth. You can use pruning shears to cut back the plant to one-third of its height. This should be done in late autumn or early spring while the plant is still dormant.
Propagation of Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum
Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum, commonly known as lacy tansy or fern-leaf tansy, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. This plant is mostly propagated by seeds and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum can be collected from the mature plants in late summer or early fall. The collected seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. In the spring, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the desired location, making sure to cover them with a light layer of soil. The soil should remain moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings reach 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Tanacetum bipinnatum (L.) Schultz-Bip. ssp. bipinnatum can be propagated through division in the early spring or fall. The mature plant should be carefully removed from the ground and the roots should be gently separated. Each division should have a set of leaves and roots. The divided plants can then be planted in a new location at the same soil level as the parent plant. After planting, the soil should be watered thoroughly to ensure that the roots have enough moisture to grow.
Disease Management
Tanacetum bipinnatum is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The most common diseases that affect this plant include powdery mildew, rust, and verticillium wilt.
To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain proper air circulation around the plant by ensuring that the plants are not overcrowded. In case of infection, fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil can be used to control the spread of the disease.
Rust is another common disease that infects Tanacetum bipinnatum. Simply removing infected plant material and limiting the amount of moisture around the plant can help prevent the spread of rust. To control the spread of rust, fungicide which contains copper or neem oil can be used.
Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that can cause severe damage to Tanacetum bipinnatum. The best way to prevent the spread of this disease is to plant disease-resistant cultivars. In case of infection, it is recommended to remove the infected plants and maintain proper garden hygiene.
Pest Management
Tanacetum bipinnatum is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause significant damage to the plant. The most common pests that attack this plant include aphids, thrips, and spider mites.
Aphids can be controlled by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. For thrips and spider mites, washing the plants with a strong spray of water can help control the infestation. In severe cases, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil may be necessary.
Regular monitoring of the plants for early detection of pests and diseases is essential for effective management. Practicing good garden hygiene, such as removing infected or infested plant material, can also help reduce the spread of diseases and pests.
