cinerariaefolium

Cinerariaefolium is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family, notable for being the source of natural insecticides known as pyrethrins. It is commonly called Dalmatian pyrethrum or Dalmatian chrysanthemum, and is cultivated primarily for the flower heads from which pyrethrins are extracted.

Taxonomy: It is currently classified as Tanacetum cinerariifolium. In older classifications it was placed in the genus Cineraria, and has appeared in literature under related names.

Distribution and cultivation: Native to the Dalmatian region along the Adriatic coast, the plant grows best in sunny, well-drained soils. It is cultivated in various warm regions for pyrethrin production, with East African countries such as Kenya among major growers.

Chemistry and uses: The plant produces pyrethrins—six closely related insecticidal esters—in the flower heads. Pyrethrins act on insect nerve cells by prolonging sodium channel activation, causing rapid knockdown. Extracts are used in agriculture, public health, and consumer products; they biodegrade quickly in sunlight, which limits environmental persistence but requires careful handling to avoid non-target effects.

Safety and environmental considerations: Pyrethrins have relatively low mammalian toxicity but can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They can be harmful to fish and aquatic invertebrates, and non-target arthropods such as pollinators may be affected with improper application. Targeted use, exposure controls, and adherence to guidelines are advised to minimize risks.