Dalmation Pellitory, Pyrethrum

Tanacetum cinerariifolium

Physical Characteristics

Tanacetum cinerariifolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe - Dalmatia, Yugoslavia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Vermifuge Dalmatian pellitory is not used medicinally, though research has shown that the flowers possess weak antibiotic activity[268]. The flowers are the main source of the insecticide pyrethrum, which is toxic to insects but not to mammals. It has sometimes been used as a vermifuge in China[147].

Known Hazards

Some people are highly allergic to this plant[160]. Prolonged contact with the dried flowers can lead to allergic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis and asthma in humans[268].