perennialN. America Native

Scentless Feverfew

Tanacetum corymbosum

The Story

Plant Bio

Tanacetum corymbosum is an upright, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with aromatic, fern-like foliage. In summer, it produces abundant sprays of daisy-like flowers, each with white rays and a yellow central disc, attracting bees and butterflies.

This species is particularly drought-tolerant and can thrive in various soil types, making it versatile for different gardening styles.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides attractive, fragrant white flowers and silvery foliage, ideal for borders and containers.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Can cause skin irritation; toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

J
F
M
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M
J
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
  2. Tuck seeds just below the soil surface and water gently.
  3. Maintain consistent moisture during germination, approximately 2 weeks.
  4. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding once they are 2 inches tall.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.
  6. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth
  • Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent weak new growth
  • Refrain from neglecting pest monitoring

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeFragrant border plantDrought-tolerant accent

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaRosemary SedumEchinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Scentless Feverfew questions

What zones can Scentless Feverfew grow in?

Scentless Feverfew is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Scentless Feverfew deer resistant?

Yes — Scentless Feverfew is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Scentless Feverfew bloom?

Scentless Feverfew typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Scentless Feverfew need full sun?

Scentless Feverfew does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Scentless Feverfew drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scentless Feverfew handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Scentless Feverfew with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.