United States Edition

Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium

Feverfew is part of the Tanacetum genus and its scientific name is Tanacetum parthenium.

Feverfew has a strongly bitter smell and taste. It is used by herbalists for a variety of ailments, including migraines. It self-sows easily and should be cut back to 1" each spring before growth begins.

Also great as a houseplant (places on window sills) to help prevent flying insects

*CAUTION: Feverfew should not be used during pregnancy because of the stimulant action on the womb. The fresh leaves may cause mouth ulcers in sensitive people. *

It is a herb that typically grows as a perennial, which is defined as a plant that matures and completes its lifecycle over the course of three years or more. Feverfew is known for its forb habit and growing to a height of approximately 30.0 cm (11.7 inches). This plant tends to bloom in late summer, followed by first harvests in late summer.

Spain is believed to be where Feverfew originates from.

Typically, Feverfew is normally fairly low maintenance and can thus be quite easy to grow - only a basic level of care is required throughout the year to ensure it thrives. Being aware of the basic growing conditions this plant likes (soil, sun and water) will result in a strong and vibrant plant.

This plant info is provided by the myfolia gardener's wiki. All details about Feverfew have been kindly provided by our members.

How to grow Feverfew

  • Medium

Prefers full sun, well drained soil (although will tolerate most soils), and low-moderate water (don’t overwater).

Growing Feverfew from seed

Feverfew requires light to germinate so don’t cover seeds with soil.

Transplanting Feverfew

Can plant outside in early spring when soil is cool or start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost.

Harvesting Feverfew

Gather entire plant in bloom, dry for later use.1

Companion plants for Feverfew

These plants have been known to grow well alongside Feverfew so consider planting:

Repellent plants for Feverfew

These plants will not grow well with Feverfew so avoid planting these within close proximity:

Common Feverfew problems

These problems, diseases and pests are known to affect Feverfew plants:

Feverfew Etymology

Legend states that feverfew saved the life of someone who fell off the Parthenon in Greece, giving it the Latin name “parthenium.”

Feverfew Folklore & Trivia

Feverfew was planted around houses in old England, possibly during the plague, believing it would purify the air. The name parthenion means “girl” in Greek, given for its use as a gynecological herb.

Other names for Feverfew

Feverfew Leaf, Tanacetum parthenium, Bachelor's Button, Compositae, Featherfew, Featherfoi, Febrifuge Plant, Pyrethrum, Wild Chamomile

Chrysanthemum parthenium

Misspellings: Fever Few, Fever-few

Latest Feverfew Reviews

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Feverfew care instructions

How long does Feverfew take to grow?

These estimates for how long Feverfew takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world. Start logging and journaling your observations to participate!

Footnotes

fn1 Feverfew

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