Anthemis, a genus full of cheerful, daisy-like flowers! It offers a delightful contrast to the more dramatic Aconitum.

What Makes Anthemis So Special: Anthemis species, commonly known as Dog Fennel or Chamomile (though "true" chamomile is usually Matricaria chamomilla), are special for their bright, long-lasting blooms and easy-going nature. They bring a touch of cottage-garden charm and are excellent for attracting pollinators. Unlike Aconitum, Anthemis is generally non-toxic (though some species can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals), making it a much safer choice for gardens with children and pets. The long bloom period, often from early summer to fall, provides a continuous supply of color. Many species also have aromatic foliage.

Description and Details:

• Appearance: Anthemis are typically herbaceous perennials (some are annuals or short-lived perennials) with daisy-like flower heads.
• Flowers: The flowers usually have a yellow central disc (composed of many tiny disc florets) surrounded by white or yellow ray florets (the "petals").
• Foliage: The leaves are often finely divided, fern-like, and aromatic, giving them a delicate texture. The foliage can be green or grey-green.
• Height: Depending on the species and cultivar, plants can range from 6 inches to 3 feet tall.
• Blooming Time: Typically blooms from early summer to fall, with deadheading significantly extending the bloom period.

Native Habitat: Anthemis species are native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, particularly the Mediterranean region. They are often found in:

• Dry, sunny meadows
• Rocky slopes
• Roadsides
• Waste areas
• Open woodlands

This habitat preference indicates their tolerance for well-drained, even poor, soils and full sun. They are generally drought-tolerant once established.

Landscaping Design Tips:

• Sunny Borders: Anthemis thrives in full sun and is perfect for sunny borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens.
• Containers: Smaller varieties are well-suited for containers, adding a cheerful touch to patios and balconies.
• Pollinator Gardens: The flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
• Cut Flowers: The long-lasting blooms make excellent cut flowers.
• Edging: Lower-growing varieties can be used as edging plants along paths or borders.
• Groundcover: Some species, like Anthemis punctata cupaniana, can be used as a spreading groundcover.
• Companion Plants: They combine well with other sun-loving perennials, such as:
  • Salvia
  • Echinacea (Coneflower)
  • Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
  • Achillea (Yarrow)
  • Nepeta (Catmint)
  • Lavender
  • Ornamental Grasses

Planting and Care:

• Soil: Anthemis prefers well-drained soil. It tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils and even thrives in them. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
• Planting: Plant in spring or fall. Space plants 12-18 inches apart, depending on the variety's mature size.
• Watering: Water regularly when young, but once established, Anthemis is quite drought-tolerant. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilizing: Anthemis does not require much fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient or simply top-dress with compost. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. This is the most important maintenance task for Anthemis.
• Pruning: After the first flush of blooms, you can shear the plants back by about one-third to encourage a second flush of flowers and maintain a compact shape.
• Pests and Diseases: Anthemis is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, watch out for aphids and powdery mildew in humid conditions. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, Anthemis is generally hardy, but a light mulch can provide extra protection. Some species may be short-lived perennials, especially in areas with wet winters.
• Division: Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring or fall to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.

Taxonomy:

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
• Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
• Order: Asterales
• Family: Asteraceae ¹ (Daisy family)  
• Genus: Anthemis

Morphology:

• Roots: Fibrous root system.
• Stems: Erect or sprawling, often branching.
• Leaves: Alternate, pinnately divided (fern-like), often aromatic.
• Flowers: Composite flower heads (typical of the Asteraceae family), with a central disc of yellow disc florets and surrounding white or yellow ray florets.
• Fruit: A small, dry achene (a type of fruit that does not open to release the seed).

Popular Varieties:

• Anthemis tinctoria (Golden Marguerite, Dyer's Chamomile): A popular species with bright yellow flowers. Cultivars include 'E.C. Buxton' (lemon yellow), 'Kelwayi' (golden yellow), and 'Sauce Hollandaise' (creamy yellow). This species was historically used to produce a yellow dye.
• Anthemis punctata subsp. cupaniana (Sicilian Chamomile): A low-growing, spreading species with silvery-grey foliage and white flowers. Excellent as a groundcover.
• Anthemis nobilis (now Chamaemelum nobile, Roman Chamomile): Technically no longer in the Anthemis genus, but often still referred to as such. Known for its apple-scented foliage and small, white flowers. Used to make chamomile tea. 'Treneague' is a non-flowering cultivar used for lawns.
• Anthemis arvensis (Corn Chamomile): An annual species, white flowers with a yellow center.
• Anthemis 'Susanna Mitchell': A hybrid with creamy-white flowers and finely cut, grey-green foliage.

Other Insights for Gardeners:

• Deer Resistance: Anthemis is generally considered deer-resistant, although deer may nibble on it if other food sources are scarce.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Anthemis is quite drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for xeriscaping (water-wise gardening).
• Short-Lived Perennial: Some Anthemis species, particularly A. tinctoria, may behave as short-lived perennials, especially in regions with very cold or wet winters. They often self-seed readily, however, so you may still have plants in the garden even if the original plants die back.
• Skin Irritation: While generally safe, some people may experience mild skin irritation from handling Anthemis, particularly A. tinctoria. It is always a good idea to wear gloves when working with plants, especially if you have sensitive skin.
• Attracts Beneficial Insects: Besides being beautiful, Anthemis does a wonderful job of attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects to the garden.

In summary, Anthemis offers a sunny disposition, easy care, and long-lasting blooms. Its drought tolerance, deer resistance, and pollinator-attracting qualities make it a valuable addition to a wide range of gardens. It provides a cheerful, low-maintenance alternative to more demanding plants, and its daisy-like flowers bring a touch of classic beauty to any landscape.