Description

Anthemis

There are about 100 species of mat or clump forming perennials and annuals, in this genus.   They derive from a wide range of well-drained sunny habitats from Europe to Northern Africa, Turkey, the Caucasus and Iran.  They produce aromatic finely dissected pinnatisect to 3 pinnatisect hairy green or silver gray leaves.  They bear daisy like white or cream, yellow flower heads blooming from late spring to late summer with yellow centers.  Some species are good for cutting or as a border or rock garden plant

Plant in moderately fertile, well-drained sandy or gravelly soil in full sun.  Taller ones need stalking or grow in self-supporting masses.  Divide in spring and/or autumn.  Cut back after flowering to keep shape.

Prone to few fungal disease, mildew, slugs, and aphids.

Anthemis sancti-johannis – This Bulgarian species was introduced into cultivation after World War II.  It’s a short-lived clump perennial reaching 18” tall and spreads to 24” wide.  It bears 2” long finely cut gray-green leaves with a white tipped.  Throughout summer it bears bright golden-orange 2” wide flowers.

Zones 3-8