Tall Tansy
cota altissima
Also known as: ["Tall Tansy","Tansy Fleabane"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial with yellow daisy-like flowers, native to certain regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Cota |
| Botanical Name: | Cota altissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or dry, sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; 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 soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Cota altissima. Even small amounts can lead to cumulative toxicity over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity if they consume parts of Cota altissima. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids are harmful to canine liver function.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCota altissima contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cota altissima toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Cota altissima attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How easy is it to care for Cota altissima?
A: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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