Origin
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray, commonly known as "roundleaf mountain fleabane," is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to North America. It can be found in the western part of the continent, from British Columbia to California and east to Montana and New Mexico.
Common Names
In addition to "roundleaf mountain fleabane," Tanacetum capitatum goes by several other common names, including "tansey," "tanacetum," "false tansy," "mountain tansy," and "round-leaf tansy."
Uses
Tanacetum capitatum has been used for its medicinal properties by several Native American tribes, including the Navajo, who used it to treat headaches, fever, and coughs. The plant contains sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, Tanacetum capitatum is commonly used in the horticulture industry for its ornamental value. Its small, bright yellow flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and it can be grown in both full sun and partial shade.
General Appearance
Tanacetum capitatum grows up to 60 cm tall and has a spreading habit. Its leaves are round and toothed, with a distinctive grayish-green coloration. The plant's yellow flowers are small and daisy-like, and they appear in compact clusters at the top of the stem. Tanacetum capitatum blooms from May to July and produces a seed head that resembles a small, rounded cone.
Light Requirements
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray commonly grows best in full sun exposure and is known to tolerate partial shade. The plant needs plenty of light to photosynthesize and support healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives under moderate temperatures of about 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It can tolerate slightly lower temperatures but is sensitive to extreme hot or cold temperatures. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Soil Requirements
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray prefers well-drained and slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant can tolerate a variety of soil types, but it grows best in loamy or sandy soil. The ideal soil should have high organic matter content and be moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray, commonly known as tansy, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is best grown in well-drained soil. It grows well in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. A planting bed that is 12-18 inches deep is ideal for tansy, as it has a deep and extensive root system.
Watering Needs
Tansy requires moderate watering to thrive. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not overly wet, to avoid root rot. Watering should be done in the morning hours to allow enough time for the plant leaves to dry off, as wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases. Tansy can tolerate periods of drought, so it is important not to over-water the plant.
Fertilization
Tansy does not require much fertilization, as it is a hardy plant that can grow in poor soils. However, the addition of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can improve the soil structure and provide necessary nutrients. Fertilization should be done in the early spring before new growth emerges.
Pruning
Pruning tansy helps to keep the plant healthy and prevent it from becoming too leggy. The plant can be cut back to half its size in the early spring before new growth appears. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will encourage the plant to produce more flowers. It is important to wear gloves when pruning tansy, as it can irritate the skin.
Propagation of Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray, commonly known as pyrethrum daisy or cobbitty daisy, is native to North America and is widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens. The plant is propagated through seeds and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Tanacetum capitatum can be sown directly in the garden or in containers. The ideal time to sow seeds is in early spring, although they can also be sown in fall. The seeds should be sprinkled on the surface of the soil and gently pressed in. They should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes about 1-2 weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. It is important to space the plants at least 30-45 cm apart to allow for their mature size.
Propagation through Division
Tanacetum capitatum can also be propagated through division. This method should be done in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. The plant should be carefully dug up and divided into smaller sections, each with a healthy root system. The sections can then be replanted into their permanent location. It is important to water the divisions well after planting to ensure their proper establishment.
Disease Management
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray is generally a hardy plant that is known to resist diseases efficiently. However, it still is susceptible to some diseases, most notably the following:
- Crown Gall: This bacterial disease causes tumors on the plant's roots and crown, leading to stunted growth and a weakened root system. Control measures include removing the affected plant and sterilizing the surrounding soil before replanting.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease affects the plant's vascular system, leading to wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death. Control measures include practicing crop rotation and avoiding overwatering.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes reddish-brown to orange spots on the plant's leaves, leading to defoliation and weakened growth. Control measures include removing affected leaves and applying a fungicide.
Pest Management
Tanacetum capitatum (Nutt.) Torr. & Gray is also prone to some common pests. The following measures can be taken to control them:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap of the plant, leading to distorted growth and reduced vigor. Control measures include using insecticidal soaps or the introduction of natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider Mites: These sap-sucking pests cause yellow stippling on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. Control measures include keeping the plant moist and regularly spraying it with water to dislodge the pests.
- Thrips: These insects feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to distort and turn pale. Control measures include using sticky traps or applying insecticidal soap.
