Also known as Alecost · Bible Leaf · Costmary Chrysanthemum
Costmary (Tanacetum balsamita) is a fragrant perennial herb with toothed, balsam-scented leaves, historically used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and aroma.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Deep watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering, encouraging a more robust root system. In hot, dry weather, increase frequency.
Prune in early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season encourages continuous flowering and prevents self-seeding.
Cut back established plants in late autumn or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance.
Propagate by division of established clumps in spring or early autumn. Cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer.
Plant divisions or cuttings in well-draining soil, keeping them consistently moist until established. They readily establish if given adequate moisture.
Repot container-grown plants every two to three years, or when they become root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in early spring before new growth begins to ensure minimal stress.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Costmary (Tanacetum balsamita)
Where Costmary (Tanacetum balsamita) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tanacetum |
| Species | Tanacetum balsamita |
Similar in genus Tanacetum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
