Chrysanthemum parthenium

Also known by the wonderful names of Flitwort and Bachelor´s Button. As well as being a fairly common garden plant, it can also be found growing in hedgerows and meadows. It has lacy yellow or green leaves and distinctive, daisy-like yellow and white flowers which bloom from early summer. It will thrive in a well drained, moist soil and full sunlight, reaching a height of 18-24 in. It is a hardy perennial and requires little attention in the garden, producing masses of blooms year after years. Unlike may other flowering herbs, feverfew is one herb disliked by bees.

Uses: Feverfew´s aromatic leaves are not often used in cooking due to their bitter taste. The leaves can be shredded and added to salads or made into a tea which has a slight sedative effect.

Medicinal: Sprigs of feverfew bound to the wrists are said to relieve fever. They have been proved to be effective in curing headaches and migraines.

Legends: According to folklore, feverfew planted around the house will ward off disease.