ANTHEMIS (Anthe'mis)

DESCRIPTION: These perennials, commonly known as Dog Fennel or Chamomile, are natives of Sicily. These plants belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. A. tinctoria variety 'E.C. Buxton' forms clumps of finely divided, dark green foliage, resembling Fern. The large, single flowers resemble Daisies. They are produced abundantly throughout the summer, one to each strong, slender stem. They are a pretty pale lemon-yellow color. This plant will grow up to 3 feet high with a 3-foot spread. A. punctata cupaniana is a smaller plant, growing only 12 inches high and 12 inches or more wide. This plant forms carpets of finely cut leaves, which are silvery turning green in the winter. The small flowers also resemble Daisies. They are produced in early summer on short stems. They are white with a yellow center.

POTTING: Grow these plants in light to medium, well-drained soil, in a warm, sheltered position in full sun. They won't live long in heavy, cold soil. Prune them back after they bloom to maintain vigor. Cut flowers of A. tinctoria 'E.C. Buxton' last well in water.

PROPAGATION: Increase Anthemises by division in spring, basal cuttings in the spring, late summer or fall.

VARIETIES: A. punctata cupaniana; A. tinctoria 'E.C. Buxton'; A. Sancti-Johannis; A. Biebersteiniana.

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