Golden Marguerite Anthemis tinctoria 'Wargrave Variety'
ABOUT
The 'Wargrave' variety of the plant commonly known as dyer's chamomile is a cheerful and attractive perennial that showcases an abundance of daisy-like flowers. The flowers are characterized by a warm yellow tone with a darker, more golden-yellow central disk, giving them a sunny and inviting appearance. The petals are arranged around the central disk in a typical daisy fashion, radiating outwards with a flat to slightly cupped orientation. The plant's foliage is finely divided and feathery in texture, presenting a soft, muted green that contrasts nicely with the brighter color of the blooms. As a garden plant, dyer's chamomile 'Wargrave' is often appreciated for its extended flowering period and its ability to bring a splash of color to borders, beds, and as a component of cottage garden compositions. The leaves and stems have an aromatic fragrance when crushed, adding another sensory dimension to the plant's appeal. Overall, 'Wargrave' dyer's chamomile has a bushy and robust presence, demonstrating a hardy disposition, and it contributes a rustic charm to any planting area it adorns.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Golden Marguerite, Yellow Chamomile, Dyer's Chamomile.
Common names
Cota tinctoria 'Wargrave', Anthemis tinctoria var. Wargrave.
ToxicityTo humans
Golden marguerite is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur. If an individual has a known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family, they may experience allergic reactions upon contact or ingestion. Ingesting large amounts of the plant may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to its unfamiliar constituents, but there is no widespread documentation of significant toxicity to humans.
To pets
Golden marguerite is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. It does not appear on the list of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats maintained by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if they are not accustomed to eating non-food plants. If a pet consumes a significant amount of the plant and shows signs of distress, it's advised to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The bright yellow flowers of the Golden Marguerite provide nectar and attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, it is highly tolerant to drought, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Long Blooming Season: This variety has an extended blooming period from early summer to early fall, keeping the garden vibrant for months.
- Easy Care: Golden Marguerite is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once it is established in an appropriate location.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to deer, which makes it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Cottage Garden Appeal: Its traditional daisy-like flowers and informal growth habit lend a charming, cottage garden feel to landscapes.
- Good for Cut Flowers: The stems and blooms hold up well when cut, making them an excellent choice for fresh bouquets and arrangements.
- Soil Adaptable: It can thrive in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
- Edging and Borders: Ideal for use in borders, edgings, or as groundcover thanks to its clumping form and colorful presence.
- Pest Resistant: Golden Marguerite is not commonly afflicted by pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Used to reduce inflammation, particularly in skin conditions.
- Antispasmodic: May help relieve muscle spasms or cramps.
- Carminative: Could aid in relieving flatulence and digestive discomfort.
- Diaphoretic: Promotes perspiration, potentially aiding in fever reduction.
- Emmenagogue: Historically used to stimulate menstrual flow.
- Sedative: Possibly used to induce calmness or help with sleep.
- Vermifuge: Has been used to expel worms or other intestinal parasites.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye production – Anthemis tinctoria 'Wargrave Variety', commonly known as Golden Marguerite or Yellow Chamomile, can be used to produce a natural yellow or gold dye for coloring textiles and wool.
- Companion Planting – Golden Marguerite may be used in the garden for companion planting to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which prey on pests.
- Garden Border Accent – With its bright yellow flowers, Golden Marguerite serves as an excellent low-maintenance border accent in a perennial garden.
- Rock Gardens – Due to its drought tolerance, Golden Marguerite is well-suited for rock gardens where it can provide a splash of color among the stones.
- Floral Arrangements – Fresh or dried, the flowers of Golden Marguerite are often used in floral arrangements to add a pop of cheerful yellow.
- Erosion Control – The plant can be used on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil with its root system.
- Pot Pourri Ingredient – Dried Golden Marguerite flowers can be incorporated into pot pourri mixes for a subtle, calming fragrance.
- Wildlife Garden – Planting Golden Marguerite can create a habitat for wildlife, especially for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Natural Insect Repellent – Some gardeners use Golden Marguerite as a natural insect repellent in the garden to discourage certain pests.
- Edible Flower Garnish – The petals of Golden Marguerite are sometimes used as an edible garnish in salads or to decorate desserts, though it's not commonly known for its culinary use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Golden Marguerite is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Golden Marguerite is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Creativity: Anthemis tinctoria, commonly known as "Golden Marguerite," often symbolizes creativity due to its bright, cheerful flowers and the plant's use in textile dyeing, which is associated with craftsmanship and artistry.
- Patience: Golden Marguerites bloom over a long season, representing patience and the idea that good things come to those who wait.
- Sunshine and Optimism: With its bright yellow blooms resembling the sun, Golden Marguerite is often seen as a symbol of positivity, light, and an optimistic outlook on life.
- Perseverance: This plant is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in poor soils, symbolizing perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges.
- Healing: The genus Anthemis includes plants that have been used for their medicinal properties, which can extend to the symbolism of the Golden Marguerite as a representation of healing and restoration.
WaterGolden Marguerite should be watered regularly, especially during prolonged dry spells. In general, it is best to water deeply once a week, providing the equivalent of 1 inch of rainfall which roughly translates to about 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. It’s important to avoid overwatering, as this plant prefers well-drained soil and can suffer from root rot in soggy conditions. During the hotter summer months or in particularly dry climates, you may need to water more frequently. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water.
LightGolden Marguerite thrives best in full sun conditions, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Choose a spot in your garden that gets lots of light and isn't shaded by larger plants or structures. While it can tolerate a bit of light shade, its flowering may be reduced in less than ideal light conditions.
TemperatureGolden Marguerite is a hardy plant that can tolerate a temperature range from just below freezing to about 86 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it grows best in moderate conditions, ideally between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minor frosts, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant.
PruningGolden Marguerite should be pruned to encourage bushy growth and more prolific blooming. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will keep the plant looking tidy and encourage additional blooms. Pruning can be done after the first flush of flowers in early summer to shape the plant and again in late fall to prepare it for winter. Cutting back the stems by about one-third after the initial flowering can promote a second bloom period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGolden Marguerite thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of 7.0 to 7.5. A mixture of garden soil, coarse sand, and compost in equal parts will create an ideal environment for this plant, ensuring good nutrient content and drainage.
RepottingGolden Marguerite does not generally require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same container for several years. Repotting is typically only necessary if the plant outgrows its current pot or the soil becomes depleted, which may be every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingGolden Marguerite is adaptable to a range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It will do well in average outdoor humidity conditions and does not need any special attention concerning the humidity level.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright spot with some direct sun.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Anthemis tinctoria 'Wargrave Variety', commonly known as Golden Marguerite or Dyer's Chamomile, starts from seed germination, which occurs in the spring when temperatures are suitable for growth. Seedlings develop into a rosette of feathery leaves, preparing for vegetative growth. During the late spring to summer, the plant undergoes rapid vegetative growth and begins to form branching stems, which lead to flowering. The flowering stage is characterized by the bloom of yellow daisy-like flowers, which are pollinated by insects, leading to seed formation. After the flowering period, seeds mature and are dispersed by wind or other means, concluding the plant's reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, particularly if it's grown in a region with harsh winters, or it may die, completing its life cycle, depending on whether it is treated as an annual or a perennial in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Golden Marguerite, known scientifically as Anthemis tinctoria 'Wargrave Variety', is popularly propagated by seed. The ideal time to sow seeds is in spring, when the risk of frost has passed, and temperatures are consistently above 60°F (about 15°C). Sow the seeds shallowly in well-draining soil, either in a seed tray or directly in the garden bed where they are to grow. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage germination. Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be thinned or transplanted to their final positions in the garden, ensuring they receive ample sunlight.
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