Costmary (Tanacetum balsamita)
Care, watering, light and tips for Costmary on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Costmary
Tanacetum balsamita, also known as costmary or mint geranium, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its oval, serrated, grayish-green leaves that emit a sweet, minty aroma when rubbed. It is ideal for herb gardens, borders, or as an ornamental potted plant, adding an aromatic and rustic touch.
Native range
Mediterranean region and Middle East
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, although it tolerates a wide range of conditions. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings; it is quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. To maintain compact growth and encourage flowering, deadheading spent blooms is recommended.
How to save a dying Costmary
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, wilting, soft or dry stems.
- First aid
- Check watering (no over/under), move to partial shade if hot, prune affected stems.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, prolonged drought, or intense direct sun in hot climates.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient if the problem is corrected.