Feverfew

What is Feverfew?

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a bushy, aromatic herbaceous plant in the daisy family. It produces small, white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and has been cultivated for centuries for both its beauty and its reputed medicinal properties.

Where is it native to?
Feverfew is native to southeastern Europe and the Balkans but has naturalized widely across North America, South America, and Australia. It thrives in temperate climates and is often found along roadsides, in gardens, and in disturbed soils.

What growing zones does it grow in?
Feverfew grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 10. In colder zones, it may be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate partial shade.

Why do people grow Feverfew?

Is it medicinal or simply ornamental—or both?
Feverfew is grown for both medicinal and ornamental purposes.

• Medicinal: Traditionally used to help relieve migraines, fevers, and inflammation. The active compound, parthenolide, is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Ornamental: Its bright, cheerful flowers and fern-like foliage make it a popular choice for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings.

What does it do? What do people use it for?
It has been used in herbal medicine for centuries, especially for headache relief and inflammation. However, it should be used with caution and under guidance, as it can cause allergic reactions or interact with medications.

How to take care or grow this Feverfew?

Can it grow indoors or is it better outdoors?
Feverfew is better suited for outdoor cultivation. While it can be started indoors from seed, it requires strong light and good airflow to thrive. Outdoors, it performs well in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground.

How can this plant be propagated?
Feverfew can be propagated in several ways:

• Seeds: Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Do not cover seeds—light aids germination.
• Division: Mature clumps can be divided in spring or fall.
• Self-seeding: Feverfew readily self-seeds in the garden. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding.