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Common Tansy
Common Tansy supports biodiversity by attracting numerous pollinators and beneficial insects. It is also valued as a companion plant because of its naturally aromatic foliage.
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Product information
Product
identification
identification
Common nameCommon Tansy
Latin nameTanacetum vulgare
FamilyAsteraceae
TypeMedicinal plant
CyclePerennial
Quantity per packMinimum 200 seeds
Product
description
description
Sowing
guide
guide
Sowing periodSpring or autumn
Best time
Spring or autumn
Sowing depth2 to 3 mm (0.08 to 0.12 in)
Spacing / density
45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)
Germination temperature18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F)
Germination time7 to 30 days
Propagation
Propagate easily by seed, clump division, or by separating offsets in spring.
Growing
method
method
Surface sow the seeds or cover them with a very thin layer of growing medium in spring or autumn. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination, then space the seedlings to promote good air circulation. This hardy perennial adapts to many well-drained soils and becomes drought tolerant once established. Over time it forms dense colonies that help suppress weeds while providing abundant late-season flowers for pollinators.
Soil
and care
and care
ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil
Well-drained loamy to sandy soil
Soil pH6.0 to 7.5
Watering
Moderate watering is sufficient. Once established, Common Tansy tolerates drought very well.
Fertilization
A light application of mature compost in spring is sufficient. Excessively rich soils encourage lush foliage at the expense of flowering.
Care levelModerate
In spring, remove the previous year's dead stems and apply a light layer of compost around the plants. During summer, deadhead spent flowers if you wish to limit self-seeding. Divide mature clumps every few years to maintain vigor. In autumn, leave some stems standing to provide habitat for beneficial insects before cutting them back if desired.
Container
growing
growing
Recommended pot size
30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in)
Common Tansy grows well in large containers filled with a light, fertile, well-drained growing medium. This hardy perennial adapts easily to container culture and requires little maintenance once established. A sunny location encourages compact growth and abundant flowering. Because it can become vigorous, divide established clumps periodically to maintain a balanced size.
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
harvest
and garden
Its aromatic foliage, long-lasting golden flowers, and traditional insect-repellent qualities make it a versatile perennial for ecological gardens. It supports beneficial insects while adding outstanding texture and color.
Common Tansy supports biodiversity by attracting numerous pollinators and beneficial insects. It is also valued as a companion plant because of its naturally aromatic foliage.
Garden use
Common Tansy is ideal for naturalistic gardens, flowering borders, and ecological vegetable gardens where it serves as a companion plant. Its brilliant yellow flowers provide outstanding late-season color while attracting a remarkable diversity of beneficial insects. Its upright habit creates beautiful background plantings, and its aromatic foliage adds texture and ecological value to sustainable landscapes.
Bloom period
Summer flowering produces abundant golden-yellow button flowers that remain ornamental for several weeks while supporting late-season pollinators.
Flower colorGolden yellow
Foliage colorDark green
Harvest
August to October
Fruiting
Small achenes develop after flowering and often remain on the plant late into the season.
Wildlife appealBees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
Size
and facts
and facts
Height60 to 150 cm (24 to 60 in)
Spread60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 in)
Growth rateModerate
Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8
Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)
Foliage typeDeciduous
Papillonstrue
Insectes utilestrue
Répulsiftrue
Résistant aux cerfstrue
Planting
partners
partners
Good companions
Yarrow, Wild Bergamot, Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower
Avoid planting with
Aggressive mint, plants requiring constantly wet soils, Ligularia, Marsh Marigold
Recipe
and inspiration
and inspiration
Common Tansy has a long history of traditional use, but it contains compounds that can be toxic if consumed in significant amounts. Today it is grown primarily as an ornamental, pollinator-friendly, and companion plant. Culinary use is generally not recommended. The dried flowers are sometimes used in decorative arrangements or traditional horticultural applications, while its greatest value remains its ecological and ornamental contribution to the garden.
Frequently asked questions
Seeds can be sown in spring or autumn in well-drained soil. Germination is generally rapid when temperatures remain mild.
Yes. Its nectar-rich flowers attract many bees, hoverflies, pollinating beetles, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Common Tansy can gradually spread through both underground roots and self-seeding. Occasional thinning or division keeps its growth under control.
Yes. Its aromatic foliage has traditionally been valued as a companion plant that may help discourage certain garden pests.
Absolutely. Common Tansy is exceptionally hardy and survives Canadian winters reliably throughout most regions.
The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.
Not recommended for pets
Pets
Attracts or supports pollinating insects
Pollinators
Plants that attract butterflies
Butterflies
Helps repel certain pests
Repellent
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer
Deer
