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 punctata subsp. Cupaniana – This Italian mat forming perennial grows 12” tall and spreads to 36” wide.  It produces silvery gray egg shape pinnatisect or 2  pinnatisect 3-5” long leaves turning gray-green in winter.  In early summer it bears long lasting 2 ½” wide white flower heads atop of 6” long stems.  It can bloom a second time later in the season but with fewer blooms.  It can become invasive.

Zones 6-9