Golden Marguerite


Golden Marguerite

This genus includes approximately 100 species of annuals and perennials that mostly forms mats or clumbs. The majority have finely cut, aromatic foliage and a long flowering period, making them rewarding subjects for the garden. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) was once classified in this genus. Anthemis tinctoria is often grown in herb gardens and is important as a dye plant. It was used for dyeing Turkish carpets before synthetic dyes became popular.

Clump forming perennial with upright stems and green, finely divided leaves, 4-7cm (1½-3in) long, which have gray, downy undersides. Bright golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers, about 4cm (1½in) across, are produced on long stalks in summer.


Common Name:
Golden Marguerite
Other Names:
Dyer's Chamomile, ox-eye chamomile
Botanical Name:
Anthemis tinctoria
Genus:
Anthemis
Family:
Asteraceae
Native Location:
Europe, W Asia
Cultivation:
Well-drained soil in sun. Plants grown in shade or in areas with cloudy summers produce fewer pigments.
Propagation:
By seed sown in spring; by division in spring; by basal cuttings in spring or late summer. Self sows freely. Seedlings are fast growing and flower in the first year.
Harvest:
Flower heads are picked as they open and are then dried.
Height:
60-90cm (2-3ft)
Width:
60-90cm (2-3ft)
Variations:
E.C. Buxton
Has lemon-yellow flowers.

Kelwayi
Has medium yellow flowers
Height: 60cm (2ft)
Width: 60cm (2ft)

Sauce Hollandaise
Has cream flowers.
Hardiness:
Z3-7
Parts Used:
Flower heads
Properties:
Rich in pigments, including flavones (apigenin and luteolin), and flavonoids (quercetagetin and patuletin).
Culinary Uses:
Dried flower heads are used for tea.
Economic Uses:
Used to dye wool a softer golden- or greenish-yellow.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 123-124