Feverfew Seeds

Tanacetum parthenium, known as Feverfew, is a robust Short-lived Perennial (H5). It is exceptionally easy to establish and is a prolific self-seeder, often colonizing small cracks or unexpected corners of the garden to create a charming, naturalistic look.

The Cut Flower Specialist: Feverfew is a staple in the floristry industry. Its strong, branching stems mean a single cut provides an entire spray of filler flowers. It possesses a phenomenal vase life, often outlasting the primary focal flowers in an arrangement by several days.

Apothecary Heritage: For centuries, Feverfew has been a centerpiece of medicinal gardens. Its leaves contain parthenolide, a compound that has been traditionally studied and used for its anti-inflammatory properties and its role in herbal headache remedies.

Feverfew seeds are tiny and require light to germinate, so they must never be buried deeply.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from February to April for summer flowers, or in September for earlier blooms the following year. Surface sow the seeds onto moist seed compost and do not cover with soil. A barely-there dusting of vermiculite can be used but is not essential. Keep at 18-20°C; germination usually takes 10-14 days.

Where to Plant:
Plant out only after the last frost has passed in May. They demand full sun to prevent the stems from becoming weak, although they will tolerate light, dappled shade. Feverfew is not fussy about soil type and will thrive in any well-drained spot.

Ongoing Care:
The secret to a bushy, productive plant is pinching. When your young plants reach 15-20cm in height, pinch out the central growing tip. This forces the plant to branch out, resulting in multiple long stems for cutting rather than a single central stalk. If allowed to set seed, Feverfew will drop its "volunteer" seeds, which often grow into even stronger plants the following spring.

Feverfew acts as the ultimate neutral "blender," making other colours sing. Pair it with these available favorites from our collection:

• 🔵 Cornflower 'Blue Ball': The Country Look. The intense electric blue of the Cornflower rising from a misty cloud of white Feverfew creates the quintessential English country meadow aesthetic. This combination is effortless, wildlife-friendly, and perfect for relaxed borders.
• 🌸 Sweet Pea 'Bishy Barnabee Mix': The Vase Partner. In the cutting garden, Feverfew provides the sturdy horizontal sprays needed to frame and support the delicate, ruffled tendrils of Sweet Peas. Together in a simple jar, they create a professional-looking display with a divine fragrance.

Sow indoors in spring or autumn for a cloud of white buttons from mid-summer until early autumn.