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Anacyclus pyrethrum
Anacyclus pyrethrum · Asteraceae
📷 AnonymousUnknown author [illustrator not stated, no signature] · Public domain
⚠️ Contact cutané provoque dermatite allergique chez enfants sensibles.
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant anacyclus pyrethrum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Anacyclus pyrethrum
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Adult height
- 30 cm
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- June to August
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Water requirement
- Low
- Origin
- Morocco
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability high.
Expert tips
The key tip
Anacyclus pyrethrum loves extreme dryness and well-draining rocky soil: it's a mineral alpine plant. Plant it with excellent drainage, water minimally (natural rainfall is enough).
The common mistake
It's often grown in regular soil with regular watering, which causes collar rot from autumn onwards.
The pro's trick
Plant it in October-November in mild climates, or April-May in cold climates: it establishes itself before summer or winter humidity.
Care
Exposure
African pyrethrum loves full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to flower well. Place it in a bright, open location. In shade, the plant will become leggy and produce few flowers.
Watering
This plant tolerates drought well once established. Water moderately during the growing season in spring, then reduce watering in summer. In winter, occasional watering is enough. Let the soil dry out well between waterings to prevent root rot.
Soil
African pyrethrum prefers well-drained, light, and rather poor soil. A mix of potting soil and coarse sand is ideal. Avoid heavy, wet soils that promote fungal diseases. Adding gravel improves drainage.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove faded flowers regularly to extend flowering. In late winter or early spring, prune lightly to maintain a compact shape. Also clean up dried or damaged foliage.
Fertilizing
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is generally sufficient. This plant doesn't appreciate over-fertilizing. Excessive nutrients can promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
African pyrethrum is generally robust. Watch out for powdery mildew and root rot if humidity is excessive. Good air circulation and well-drained soil prevent most problems.
Did you know?
The name "pyrethrum" comes from Greek and means "fire," referring to the peppery taste of the root, which was once used in traditional medicine. This plant is historically cultivated in Morocco, its native range, where it has ancient applications in folk medicine.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.