Tansy is a very aromatic native wild perennial and a traditional old medicinal and dye plant. Since the leaves are very rich in essential oils, the whole plant emits a very distinctive, spicy scent that is either loved or despised. The scent and the essential oils make tansy a good natural plant protection plant. Planted next to potatoes, it is said to drastically reduce the infestation of potato beetles. If you make a tansy tonic from the above-ground parts of the plant, it can be used very effectively to strengthen and protect strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries against some chewing pests.
The antiseptic effect of the plant made it a well-known medicinal plant in antiquity. It became known as the remedy of choice for worm infestations. The German name 'Wurmkraut' (worm herb) is derived from this use. However, it is important to know that tansy is a toxic plant, and even small amounts of tansy oil can cause severe poisoning symptoms. In sensitive people, touching the plant can cause mild contact allergies.
The flower heads of tansy are very suitable for dyeing fabrics. Depending on the addition of mordants, a dark yellow or dark green colour is produced.
In nature, tansy is often found along plant-rich roadsides, waste places, and riverbanks. It is an important host plant for some caterpillars, butterflies, and beetles.
