Common tansy
Also known as
Tansy, Bitter buttons, Golden buttons, Curfew herb
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Common tansy
Tanacetum vulgare, commonly called common tansy, is an aromatic, rhizomatous perennial in the Asteraceae family native to Europe and temperate Asia and widely naturalized elsewhere. It forms upright clumps 50–150 cm tall with strongly scented, fernlike, pinnately divided leaves that are deeply toothed. Flat-topped clusters of bright yellow, button-like flower heads (disc florets only, no rays) appear from mid- to late summer and are highly attractive to many pollinating and predatory insects. Spreading rhizomes and prolific seed set allow it to naturalize aggressively, sometimes becoming invasive in disturbed sites. Historically used as a culinary herb, dye plant, and insect repellent, it contains thujone and other compounds that render it toxic if ingested and potentially irritating to skin. It thrives in full sun, well-drained soils, and lean conditions, tolerating drought, wind, and poor fertility once established.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Common tansy
Water
Water newly planted tansy regularly for the first growing season to establish deep roots. Thereafter, it is drought tolerant; water only during extended dry spells. In garden beds, soak thoroughly, then allow the top 5–7 cm of soil to dry before watering again. In containers, water when the top 2–3 cm are dry, ensuring excellent drainage and never leaving the pot sitting in a saucer of water. Reduce watering substantially in cool weather or dormancy.
Light
Provide full sun for best flowering and compact growth—aim for at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. Tansy tolerates light or open shade, especially in hotter climates, but stems may elongate and become floppy with reduced bloom. In containers or partial shade, increase air circulation and reduce fertility to minimize lodging. Indoor culture is not recommended; if attempted, use the brightest possible location and rotate plants regularly to avoid leaning.
Nutrients
Tansy is not a heavy feeder and often performs best in lean soils. In spring, incorporate a small amount of compost or a light top-dress with well-rotted manure to support flowering without encouraging excessive, floppy growth. Avoid frequent or high-nitrogen fertilization, which increases invasiveness and lodging. In containers, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at half rate once in spring; usually no additional feeding is required through the season if the potting mix is fresh and well-drained.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, tansy tolerates significant cold once established, withstanding winter lows to approximately −34 °C in sheltered conditions. Optimal growth occurs between 10–27 °C. It endures summer heat if soil drains well and occasional drought is not extreme. Avoid waterlogged soils in cool weather, which can promote root issues. No frost protection is needed in-ground within its hardiness range; containerized plants benefit from overwintering protection in very cold climates.
