20 Pyrethrum Dalmation Flower, Tanacetum cinerarifolium
Pyrethrum Daisy, Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium = Tanacetum cinerariifolium.
Perennial, flowering in the second year and thereafter. Native to western Asia and Iran. Flowers are white with yellow centers in typical daisy fashion. The flower buds are often dried and ground into an organic insecticide powder, often used to kill fleas and other small bugs in the garden.
The active ingredient are called monoterpenes, also known as pyrethrins. It produces the highest concentration of pyrethrins when grown in poor soil, at altitude, or in dry conditions.
Sow small seeds on the soil surface (light dependent germinator), press in firmly, and keep evenly moist. Seeds germinate best in cool soils planted in the early spring; allow 2-3 weeks. Thin or transplant to one foot apart. Height to three feet tall. Full sun, drought tolerant, likes alkaline soils.
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