Pyrethrum / Tanacetum Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 7th Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Pyrethrum / Tanacetum plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Painted Daisy, Coccineum, Tansy, & Feverfew: Cultivation & Garden Use

Pyrethrum (Now classified as Chrysanthemum or Tanacetum plants), are hardy perennials. That said, they are frequently grown as hardy annuals in the garden.

They vary in height from 10 to 90 cm (4 to 36 inches). This makes them a versatile plant in the garden, and they are ideal for use in borders or edging.

Tanacetum coccineum - Painted Daisies by Hunda.

Pyrethrum plant species bloom from the middle of spring to summer. In bloom, they carry flowers reminiscent of daisies. The petals may be red, purple, pink or white.

Tanacetum vulgare – Tansy by Matt Lavin; both photographs under creative commons licence.

The foliage is often fern-like.

Some common names for Pyrethrum (Tanacetum) plant genus members include Painted Daisy, Tansy, and Feverfew.

Commonly Grown Pyrethrum Species Photographs and Plant Identification

Pyrethrum cinerariifolium

Pyrethrum cinerariifolium syn. Tanacetum cinerariifolium syn. Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium.

Pyrethrum cinerariifolium (Dalmatian pellitory), photograph by Koehler Images, Public domain; CC.

Tanacetum coccineum

Pyrethrum coccineum syn. Tanacetum coccineum syn. Chrysanthemum coccineum,

Tanacetum coccineum (Painted Daisy ‘Robinson's Red’ Cultivar), picture by Leonora (Ellie) Enking; CC.

How to Grow Painted Daisy (Pyrethrum / Tanacetum)

The seeds of Pyrethrum / Tanacetum plant species, such as Painted daisy and Feverfew, can be sown out in early autumn or early spring.

Once seeds have been sown, lightly cover the painted daisy seeds.

They like to grow in a sunny part of the garden that has good drainage. Ideally with a soil of pH 6 to 7.5.

The Pyrethrum plants should be spaced from 20 cm (8 inches, small varieties) to 60 cm (24 inches, large Pyrethrum / Tanacetum species) apart.

If growing indoors, first then sow the seeds about two months in advance.

The seeds should take about 3 to 9 weeks to germinate at 12 degrees centigrade (54°F).

Pyrethrum seedlings can be transplanted outdoors either in autumn, or before the last frost of spring.

Caring for Feverfew, Painted daisies, and other Pyrethrum / Tanacetum Plants in the Garden

Once growing, the pinching back of young Painted daisies or Feverfew plants at the tips will encourage branching.

Following the end of flowering, cut back the plants lightly and feed them. Plants should then produce a further bloom.

If you require more plants, then they can be propagated by division in the spring time.

Common Questions

How many members does the Pyrethrum genus contain?

The Pyrethrum genus, the Painted daisies / Pyrethrum daisies, has six species.

Do Pyrethrum members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Pyrethrum plants are admired for their brightly colored flowers and make a lovely addition to borders and flower beds.

Which Pyrethrum species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most commonly grown species is Pyrethrum cinerariifolium, valued for its insecticidal properties as well as its beautiful white flowers.

Are Pyrethrum plants fragrant?

Pyrethrum plants are not known for their fragrance, but their beauty lies in their striking visual appeal.

What is the perfect location to grow Pyrethrum?

Pyrethrum prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can also tolerate light shade, but flowers best in full sun.

Is Pyrethrum invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Pyrethrum species are not classified as invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Pyrethrum plants from my garden?

To remove Pyrethrum, you can simply pull them out, ensuring to get as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Pyrethrum genus contains perennial plants that are native to southwestern Asia. These plants are known for their daisy-like flowers and insecticidal properties.

Pyrethrum plants prefer to grow in full sun or light shade, and well-drained soil. They can be planted in the spring or fall. While they can handle cooler temperatures, they perform best in moderate climates. Regular watering and deadheading of spent flowers can encourage a more robust bloom.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Pyrethrum plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Callistephus and Townsendia plants.