Tansy is a perennial member of the aster family, with serrated, fernlike leaves and flat bright yellow flowers that resemble buttons. Originally native to Europe and Asia, tansy is now widely grown and has a number of traditional medicinal uses, though most modern herbalists warn against its use by laymen.
Modern herbalists warn against its medicinal use because all species of tansy are toxic and can cause hallucinations, spasms, convulsions, and even death in large doses.
Today, the primary use of Tansy is as an insect repellent and companion plant.
Temperature: 68F - if no germination in 3 - 4 wks, move to 24 - 39F for 2 - 4 wks
Average Germ Time: 21 - 28 days
Light Required: Yes
Depth: Surface sow and thinly cover
Sowing Rate: 5 - 7 seeds per plant
Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 24 - 36 inches
Tansy is a striking perennial herb known for its fern-like foliage, clusters of bright golden-yellow button flowers, and long history as a traditional garden plant. Native to Europe and naturalized throughout much of North America, Tansy is prized for its ornamental value, pollinator appeal, and usefulness in cottage gardens, herb gardens, and naturalized plantings.
The attractive, deeply divided foliage provides season-long texture, while the cheerful yellow flowers create a bold display from mid to late summer. Its vigorous growth and adaptability make it an excellent choice for large containers, borders, and wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Tansy has been cultivated for centuries and remains a favorite among gardeners who appreciate classic herbs with strong visual appeal.
UsesTansy grows very well in large containers where its vigorous growth can be easily managed. Select a container at least 14–16 inches wide and deep with good drainage. Use a quality potting mix and place the container in full sun for best flowering.
Once established, Tansy is quite drought tolerant and requires relatively little maintenance. Water when the soil becomes dry, but avoid prolonged soggy conditions. Deadheading spent flowers can help maintain a tidy appearance.
Container growing is an excellent way to enjoy Tansy's beauty while preventing excessive spreading in the garden.
Germination InstructionsFlowers may be harvested when fully open for fresh or dried arrangements. Cut stems during dry weather and hang upside down in a warm, well-ventilated location to dry.
The attractive foliage may also be cut for ornamental use throughout the growing season. Regular removal of spent flowers helps maintain a neat appearance and encourages continued blooming.
Why Grow Tansy?Tansy combines bold ornamental beauty, pollinator value, and ease of cultivation in one hardy perennial. Its distinctive fern-like foliage and bright golden flower clusters create an eye-catching display in containers and garden beds alike. Durable, attractive, and easy to grow, Tansy remains a classic choice for herb gardens, cottage gardens, and naturalized landscapes.
Note: Tansy is grown primarily as an ornamental and traditional herb. Plant material should not be consumed.
Cannot ship to MN, WY
Jackpot Tansy is a beautiful ornamental herb prized for its silvery-gray foliage, compact growth habit, and masses of cheerful daisy-like flowers. Unlike common tansy, this attractive species is grown primarily for its decorative value and is especially popular in borders, rock gardens, pollinator plantings, and container gardens.
The finely textured silver foliage provides striking contrast to surrounding plants throughout the growing season, while the abundant white flowers with golden-yellow centers create a brilliant display that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.
Its compact size and drought tolerance make Jackpot Tansy an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant with season-long appeal.
UsesJackpot Tansy performs exceptionally well in containers. Choose a pot at least 12–14 inches wide with good drainage and fill it with a quality, well-draining potting mix.
Place containers in full sun for the best flowering and foliage color. Once established, plants are relatively drought tolerant and require only moderate watering. Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming and helps maintain an attractive, tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
Germination InstructionsFlowers may be harvested when fully open for bouquets or dried arrangements. Cut stems during dry weather and place immediately into water for fresh arrangements.
The silvery foliage also makes an attractive addition to mixed floral displays and can be harvested sparingly throughout the season without harming the plant.
Why Grow Jackpot Tansy?Jackpot Tansy offers a winning combination of silvery foliage, abundant flowers, pollinator appeal, and easy care. Its compact size makes it ideal for containers, while its drought tolerance and long bloom season ensure reliable garden performance. Whether grown as a specimen plant, border accent, or patio container feature, Jackpot Tansy delivers beauty and charm from spring through summer.