Tansy Mustard

descurainia tanacetifolia

Also known as: ["Tansyleaf Madwort","Tansyleaf Tansy Mustard"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Descurainia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

An annual herbaceous plant native to North America, characterized by finely divided leaves and small, yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Descurainia
Botanical Name: Descurainia tanacetifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, open meadows, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • 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; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead flowers regularly.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or compacted soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better structure.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates light frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in cooler months.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bag or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.

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; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturating the soil; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve airflow around the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Descurainia tanacetifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogen infestation, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Descurainia tanacetifolia is typically a response to water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Descurainia tanacetifolia are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to chlorosis, necrosis, and reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Descurainia tanacetifolia is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, resulting in tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Descurainia tanacetifolia may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Descurainia tanacetifolia by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from consuming any part of the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Descurainia tanacetifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Descurainia tanacetifolia toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.

Q: How does this plant grow?

A: It is an annual plant that thrives in dry, open areas with minimal care.

Q: Does it attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering habit.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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