Chrysanthemum marshallii
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Chrysanthemum marshallii is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Not known
Europe to W. Asia - Caucasia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The dried flower heads (actually the yellow inner petals) are used to make the insecticide 'pyrethrum'.
Insecticide: Kills insects.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It is quite probable that this plant properly belongs to the genus Tanacetum. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in ordinary garden soil. Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in full sun.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in a greenhouse or cold frame in the spring. If the seed does not germinate within 4 weeks it can be chilled for 3 weeks at about 3°c and then be returned to the greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer. Division in spring. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the summer or following spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist