Pyrethrum
tanacetum cinerariifolium
Also known as: ["Cineraria","Pyrethrum Daisy"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its daisy-like flowers and insecticidal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tanacetum |
| Botanical Name: | Tanacetum cinerariifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- 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: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- 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; tolerates full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate climates.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize after pruning; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in late autumn.
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 medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; check for root bound; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wet leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or blackening of leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; frost can kill tender parts of the plant.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may require increased watering in hot spells.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply in the morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to pyrethrins, which can cause severe neurological effects. The compounds are rapidly absorbed and can lead to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicPyrethrins in Tanacetum cinerariifolium can be toxic to dogs, affecting their nervous system. The compounds are particularly harmful to smaller breeds or those with pre-existing health conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicTanacetum cinerariifolium, commonly known as pyrethrum, contains pyrethrins which are neurotoxic to insects but can cause adverse effects in humans if ingested. The compounds affect the nervous system, leading to a range of physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pyrethrum safe for pets?
A: Pyrethrum is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Q: How do I care for Pyrethrum?
A: Plant in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade, water moderately, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming.
Q: What are the uses of Pyrethrum?
A: Pyrethrum is used as a natural insecticide due to its insect-repelling properties.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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