Tanacetum vulgare (Tansy) – robust, fragrant summer flowering perennial

Tanacetum vulgare, commonly known as Tansy or common yarrow, is a perennial plant that has been prized for centuries for its ornamental value, fragrance, and versatility. The plant is known for its bright yellow flower clusters, aromatic foliage, and robust habit, making it a striking addition to natural borders, wild gardens, and ecological plantings.

Tansy is an excellent choice for gardens seeking low-maintenance, strong, bee- and butterfly-friendly plants with a distinctive appearance and a long flowering period.

Features – Bright yellow flowers and aromatic foliage

Tanacetum vulgare typically grows to 100–150 cm tall and forms sturdy, upright stems with finely incised, dark green leaves. The foliage is aromatic and slightly bitter, giving the plant a unique texture and scent profile in the garden.

The flowers appear in yellow, button-shaped umbels 1–2 cm in diameter, which bloom in large numbers throughout the summer—from July to September. The densely packed flowers form a striking yellow carpet that is suitable for both the garden and as cut flowers.

Tansy can be used in borders as well as in wild or natural garden structures and has a strong visual and ecological value.

Location and care

Tanacetum vulgare is a low-maintenance, robust plant that has few demands:

• Location: full sun to partial shade

• Soil: well-drained, preferably slightly nutritious; tolerant of poorer soil

• Water: moderate watering; the plant is drought tolerant once established

• Fertilization: minimal fertilization required; too much nitrogen stimulates leaf growth at the expense of flowers

The plant is winter hardy and can remain in the same spot for several years, making it ideal for perennial borders and natural gardens.

Ecological value

Tanacetum vulgare is extremely beneficial for biodiversity. Its bright yellow flowers attract bees, bumblebees, hoverflies, and butterflies. The aromatic foliage can also help repel certain insect pests, making the plant a functional garden plant.

In addition, Tansy is valuable in natural landscapes, wildflower meadows and ecological garden designs, where the plant provides a structure and color accent.

Application in garden design

Tanacetum vulgare has many uses:

• High borders: robust height and striking yellow flowers make the plant ideal as a back border or structural element

• Natural gardens: goes well with wildflowers and in prairie or flower meadows

• Cut flowers: the bright yellow umbel flowers can be used in dried or fresh bouquets

• Biodiversity: attracts beneficial insects and can repel pest insects

• Combinations: combines beautifully with purple, pink or white summer bloomers such as Echinacea, Salvia or Rudbeckia

The tall stems and bright colour give Tansy a vertical and sunny touch to the garden, making it an eye-catcher in both small and large gardens.