Description of Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. is a shrubby plant native to the western Mediterranean and North Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as the woody tansy, everlasting, or tree tansy.
Appearance of Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
The woody tansy is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide. The plant has a woody stem and silver-gray leaves that are deeply lobed and aromatic. The small yellow flowers bloom in clusters and are surrounded by green bracts.
Uses of Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
The woody tansy has various uses in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant. The extract from the leaves and flowers is used to treat digestive problems, menstrual disorders, and fever. The plant is also a common ingredient in cosmetic products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In gardens, the woody tansy is used as a border or accent plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
However, it is important to note that the woody tansy can be toxic if consumed in large amounts and may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Light Requirement
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. is a plant that requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate only partial shade. Insufficient sunlight can lead to poor growth, weak stems, and low flower production.
Temperature Requirement
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. It cannot tolerate extreme cold temperatures and frost.
Soil Requirement
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5-8.0). The ideal soil for this plant is sandy or gravelly with low to moderate fertility. It does not thrive in clay or poorly drained soils. It requires adequate moisture and can tolerate periodic drought conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. can be cultivated through seeds or cuttings. It is best to plant the seeds during the spring season in well-draining soil or potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1/8 inch and placed in a location with full sun exposure. For best results, keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
When planting cuttings, select healthy stems of about 4-6 inches and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in prepared soil or potting mix, keep the soil evenly moist, and provide sufficient light. To encourage root growth, keep the soil temperature moderate, preferably between 60-70°F.
Watering Needs
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not overly saturated. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. does not require excessive fertilizer. You can use a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season to promote growth. It is also advisable to apply a small amount of organic matter or compost annually to enrich the soil. Avoid using excessive fertilizer as this can lead to leggy growth, lower quality flowers, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. requires annual pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Cut back the old stems to about 6 inches above the soil level. This helps to promote new growth and increase the number of flowers. Deadhead the spent blooms regularly to encourage new blooms and keep the plant looking tidy.
Propagation Methods of Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
Tanacetum suffruticosum L., also known as the everlasting, is a perennial plant that can be propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common ways of propagating Tanacetum suffruticosum L. is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds in early autumn and sow them in seed trays filled with well-draining soil. Press the seeds lightly onto the soil surface, and cover with a thin layer of compost or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place the seed trays in a warm, bright location. The seeds should germinate within 14-21 days. Transplant the seedlings into small pots and keep them in a greenhouse for one year before planting them outdoors.
Cuttings
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. can be propagated through softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Cut 2-3 inch stem cuttings from the parent plant, making sure each cutting has at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut ends of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cuttings into pots filled with a well-draining potting mix and water them. Place the pots in a bright, warm location, and mist the cuttings with water daily. The cuttings should root within 3-4 weeks. Transplant the rooted cuttings into larger pots, and keep them in a greenhouse for one year before planting them outdoors.
Division
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. can also be propagated through division. Lift the parent plant from the ground, and divide the rhizomes into smaller sections, making sure each section has several shoots. Replant the divisions into well-draining soil, and water them well. Keep the newly planted divisions in a shaded area for a few weeks to allow them to establish before moving them to their permanent location.
Regardless of the propagation method you choose, make sure to water the young plants regularly until they are well-established.
Disease Management for Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
Tanacetum suffruticosum L. or the “woody tansy” is generally disease-resistant when grown in well-drained soil under full sunlight. However, fungal infections may occur, especially under damp or humid conditions. The most common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Leaf spot
- Powdery mildew
- Rust
To manage these diseases, it is advisable to practice proper plant hygiene, which involves removing infected leaves and disposing of them properly. Additionally, avoid watering the plant on its foliage, which creates a conducive environment for fungal growth. Instead, water the plant at its base to keep the leaves dry. Lastly, consider using fungicides to control or prevent fungal infections. Be sure to read the product label and apply as instructed.
Pest Management for Tanacetum suffruticosum L.
This plant is relatively pest-resistant, but it may attract the following pests:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
To manage these pests, consider using integrated pest management tactics, which include:
- Encouraging the presence of natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings by planting companion plants such as dill.
- Handpicking and disposing of caterpillars and other visible pests manually.
- Applying insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, following label instructions carefully.
