Costmary
tanacetum balsamita
Also known as: ["Alecost","Balsam Leaf","Costmary","Costme","Molucca Balm"]
Overview
A perennial herb with aromatic, balsam-scented leaves, historically used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tanacetum |
| Botanical Name: | Tanacetum balsamita |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in dappled shade during peak summer hours; indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; thrives in moderate climates.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; use organic compost as a slow-release alternative.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-integrated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; apply a thick layer of mulch for in-ground plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves in the morning to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCostmary is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in cats after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCostmary is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not typically associated with adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTanacetum balsamita, commonly known as costmary, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used historically for culinary and medicinal purposes without significant adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Costmary safe for pets?
A: Yes, Costmary is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Costmary?
A: Historically, Costmary was used to flavor beer, tea, and salads, and for its medicinal properties.
Q: How should Costmary be cared for?
A: Costmary thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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