Flower guide

Tansy Plants

Overview

Brief introduction

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is an aromatic, rhizomatous perennial in the Asteraceae with clusters of button-like golden-yellow florets. Long used as a medicinal and insect-repellent herb, it can spread aggressively and is invasive in some regions.

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At a glance

Key details

Botanical info

Taxonomy

Kingdom: Plantae; Family: Asteraceae; Genus: Tanacetum; Species: Tanacetum vulgare; Common name: Tansy; Type: Aromatic perennial herb.

Distribution

Native to Europe and temperate Asia; widely naturalized in North America, New Zealand, and other temperate regions, often along roadsides, riverbanks, and disturbed soils.

Conservation

Not globally threatened; considered invasive/noxious in parts of North America—control spread and avoid planting near natural areas.

Gifting & etiquette

Presentation etiquette

Present in a rustic bundle or with natural twine; include a note about invasiveness and toxicity; favor mixed arrangements to soften the strong scent; keep away from pets and children; avoid enclosed, scent-sensitive spaces.

Ideal delivery time

Deliver in the cool morning. For fresh stems, cut when button flowers are just opening for longest life; for dried arrangements, deliver 3–7 days before the event.

Health & risk

Toxicity

Contains thujone and other terpenes; ingestion may cause nausea, vomiting, convulsions, and liver damage, and can be fatal. Essential oil is highly toxic; contraindicated in pregnancy. May cause contact dermatitis; poisonous to pets and livestock.

Allergenicity

Moderate—pollen and foliage can trigger allergies or contact dermatitis; strong scent may irritate sensitive individuals.

Meaning & taboos

Symbolism & color

Tansy signifies immortality, protection, and steadfast resilience; in Victorian floriography it could also convey defiance or “I declare war.”

Growing & tools

Care & gear

Growing tips

Full sun to light shade; well-drained, average to poor soil; drought tolerant once established. Space 18–24 in; height 2–4 ft; hardy USDA Zones 3–8. Spreads by rhizomes and self-seeding—deadhead, divide clumps, and use root barriers to control. Water sparingly and avoid fertilizing. Useful as a pest-deterring companion but monitor invasiveness; toxic to livestock—site away from grazing areas.

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