cinerariifolium

Cinerariifolium, more commonly known in its current botanical name as Tanacetum cinerariifolium (formerly Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium), is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is best known as the source of pyrethrins, a group of natural insecticides. The plant is native to the dry, rocky regions of the Dalmatian coast in the western Balkans and has been cultivated for centuries for its chemical compounds.

Description and habitat. Tanacetum cinerariifolium is a herbaceous perennial that typically reaches about 40 to 60 centimeters in height. It has finely divided, aromatic leaves and upright flowering stems topped by heads with white to pale yellow ray florets and yellow to brownish disk florets. In the wild it favors sunny, well-drained, rocky soils and can grow at low to mid elevations; in cultivation it requires full sun, good drainage, and protection from hard frost.

Uses and chemistry. The plant is grown primarily for the production of pyrethrins, insecticidal compounds extracted from the dried flower heads. Pyrethrins are effective against a broad range of pests and biodegrade relatively quickly in light and air, reducing long-term environmental persistence. The material is used in agricultural, horticultural, and household formulations, often in combination with other additives to enhance efficacy.

Taxonomy and nomenclature. The species has been placed in different genera over time; current widely accepted nomenclature is Tanacetum cinerariifolium, with synonyms including Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium and Pyrethrum cinerariifolium. The epithet cinerariifolium denotes leaves resembling those of the genus Cineraria.

See also. Pyrethrum, pyrethrins, and Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium.