Greater Tansy
tanacetum macrophyllum
Also known as: ["Large-leaved Tansy","Bigleaf Tansy"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with large, deeply lobed leaves and clusters of small, yellow, button-like flowers. It is known for its aromatic foliage and traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tanacetum |
| Botanical Name: | Tanacetum macrophyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soil with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights and mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use a slow-release fertilizer for consistent feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove dead or diseased wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away completely.
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 to enhance fertility; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; protect from frost with row covers or cloches.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Tanacetum macrophyllum. Chronic ingestion can lead to severe liver dysfunction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Tanacetum macrophyllum can cause liver damage in dogs if ingested in large amounts. Chronic exposure may lead to severe hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTanacetum macrophyllum contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if ingested in significant quantities over time. The physiological impact includes potential hepatotoxicity, particularly with chronic exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tanacetum macrophyllum safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How should I care for Tanacetum macrophyllum?
A: Plant in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Water moderately and prune after flowering to encourage rebloom.
Q: Does Tanacetum macrophyllum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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