Tanacetum balsamita
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusTanacetum
Zone4
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Tanacetum balsamita, commonly known as costmary or alecost, is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it has been cultivated for its aromatic leaves and medicinal properties. The plant features rhizomatous growth and can spread easily in temperate climates. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Costmary
Matricaria Apetala
Pyrethrum Majus
Pyrethrum Tanaceum
Balsamita balsamita
Balsamita major
Balsamita major subsp. major
Balsamita major var. major
Balsamita suaveolens
Balsamita vulgaris
Chamaemelum balsamita
Chrysanthemum balsamita
Chrysanthemum balsamita var. tanacetoides
Chrysanthemum grandiflorum
Chrysanthemum majus
Leucanthemum balsamita
Matricaria balsamita
Pyrethrum balsamita
Tanacetum balsamita subsp. balsamita
Tanacetum balsamita var. balsamita
Tanacetum ovatifolium
Tanacetum simplicifolium
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Tanacetum balsamita thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered when the soil partially dries out, and it benefits from moderate humidity levels. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support healthy growth.Repotting
Repot Tanacetum balsamita every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and refresh the soil mix to provide new nutrients.Propagation
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes in early spring or late autumn. Ensure each division has a healthy root system and plant them in well-prepared soil.Pruning
Prune regularly to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain the plant's shape. Pruning also encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Tanacetum balsamita is not toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Tanacetum balsamita has historically been used for its medicinal properties and as a flavoring in ales and other beverages. Its aromatic leaves can be used in potpourri or as a natural insect repellent.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
