Pyrethrum Tanacetum coccineum subsp. coccineum

Painted Daisy is an upright, bushy perennial that is known for its bright-colored daisy-like flowers. They are grown in shades of pink, red, purple, or white with yellow centers. They are beautiful as cut flowers in bouquets or floral arrangements. The flowers bloom from June to July. The plant grows 1-3 feet tall and 1.5- 2 feet wide. This species is also known to produce a natural insecticide known as pyrethrins. The Painted Daisy is a member of the Asteraceae or Aster family. Other common names include Pyrethrum, Pyrethrum Daisy, and Persian Insect Flower. There are many cultivars with vibrant colored flowers.

The plant is native of Eastern Europe to Central Asia and Iran. 

The genus name, Tanacetum, is derived from the Greek word, "Athanasia," which means "immortal." The species name, coccineum, originates from the Latin word, "coccineus," which means "scarlet." This references the flower color of some of the species plants. Tanacetum coccineum subsp .coccineum is an accepted subspecies.

Painted Daisy prefers full sun to partial shade. They enjoy well-drained, moist, and sandy to loamy soils. They perform best in USDA zones 3-7. To encourage more flowers, it is best to pinch back the new growth when the plant is 6-8 inches tall. As the plant grows in size, allow the new buds to form and refrain from pinching back the new growth. Deadheading spent blooms will also encourage more blossoms. The plant may be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or divisions.

The medium green leaves are soft, fine texture, fern-like, and aromatic. The upper leaves are shorter than the lower leaves. The daisy-like flower is about 3 inches in diameter and grows on a wiry stem. The outer petal rays are brightly colored and encircle at the yellow central disk. 

Painted Daisy attracts butterflies and is deer resistant.

This plant is very versatile and may be used in a variety of landscapes. This may include flower beds, borders, containers, rock gardens, cottage gardens, or mass plantings. They are excellent as cut flowers. It is best to wear gloves when handling this plant because the sap and leaves may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis.

Quick ID Hints:

• Medium green soft fern-like leaves
• Daisy-like flowers with brightly colored petal rays and center yellow disk
• Wiry stems

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:

There are no serious disease or pest problems. The foliage has natural insect-repelling properties. Monitor the plant for aphids, leafhoppers, leaf miners, nematodes, spider mites, or thrips.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common pests and diseases.