SC - Tansy (again)

[LrdRas at aol.com]

TANACETUM (Tanace'tum)
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DESCRIPTION: This hardy perennial, commonly called Tansy, has been used over
the centuries for treating various medical ailments and was traditionally used
as an insect repellent. The leaves and flowers were once added to Lenten
pancakes to give a bitter flavor that was meant to remind diners of suffering
and sacrifice. Tansy can be toxic. Never eat it in large amounts or drink
strong tisanes made from it. This lanky plant grows wild throughout Europe and
has escaped from cultivation in North America. It grows 3 to 4 feet high and
has finely divided, feathery leaves. After mid-summer, it bears flat clusters
of many small yellow flowers resembling buttons; they bloom for many weeks.
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POTTING: Young plants are transplanted outdoors after there is no danger from
frost. They are grown in full sun and regular garden soil. Place purchased
plants in the garden from late summer through fall. Cut off freshly opened
flowers. Dried flowers and leaves can be used in potpourris or layered between
clothes to repel insects. You can make a weak tisane. Cut and hang the long
flower stems for everlasting flowers. 
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PROPAGATION: Seeds should be started indoors, early in the spring and
eventually transferred to the garden. The clumps can be divided in the fall
and spring and replanted. 
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VARIETIES: T. vulgare (the common Tansy) & variety crispum (smaller, more
finely divided foliage); T. Herderi (rare dwarf w/ silvery foliage). 


Ras
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