Feverfew, scientifically known as Tanacetum parthenium, is a bushy herbaceous plant characterized by small, daisy-like flowers and aromatic, deeply cut foliage. Resembling chamomile, it is a popular feature in cottage gardens across Europe and North America. The herb has been valued in traditional European herbalism for centuries. Gardeners often cultivate it for its ornamental qualities and historical applications, making its growth habits a frequent question.
Life Cycle and Classification of Feverfew
Feverfew is classified as a short-lived herbaceous perennial, meaning it can live for more than two years. Its actual life span is highly dependent on the climate and specific growing conditions. In warmer regions (USDA Zones 5–10), the plant persists for about two to three years before its vigor declines and it requires replacement.
In colder climates, gardeners often treat the plant as an annual or biennial because it may not survive harsh winters. However, a well-established root system can tolerate temperatures down to approximately -20°F while dormant. The plant’s persistence in a garden setting is frequently due to its prolific self-seeding habit. While individual plants are short-lived, the species maintains a continuous presence by dropping seeds that germinate readily, creating new generations year after year.
Essential Growing Conditions
Successful cultivation requires ample light, as the plant thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct light daily. While it tolerates partial shade, insufficient light can cause stems to become elongated and weak, a condition known as legginess. The herb prefers a light, well-drained medium.
The soil should be of average fertility, ranging from sandy to loamy, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.2. Feverfew is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering when the topsoil partially dries out between applications. Overly wet or heavy clay soils are detrimental and can lead to root issues.
Routine maintenance involves pruning, which encourages a bushier growth habit and prolongs the blooming period. Deadheading spent flowers stimulates the plant to produce more blooms. This action is also the most effective way to prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively and spreading unintentionally throughout the garden. Propagation is simple, accomplished by sowing seeds in the spring or by dividing mature clumps in the fall or early spring.
Primary Historical Use
The common name, Feverfew, derives from the Latin word febrifugia, which translates directly to “fever reducer.” This etymology reflects its primary historical role in traditional medicine, where it was frequently used to help reduce fevers and manage inflammatory conditions. References to its medicinal use date back to the first century, with Greek herbalists noting its application as an anti-inflammatory agent.
The herb became particularly well-known for its traditional use in managing headaches and migraines, with some historical accounts referring to it as “medieval aspirin.” Users would historically chew the fresh leaves to obtain the benefits. This traditional effectiveness is attributed to a group of naturally occurring compounds found in the leaves and flowers, most notably the sesquiterpene lactones, such as parthenolide. These compounds are believed to be responsible for the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties, a mechanism that supports its long-standing use for various ailments.