Tanacetum vulgare Isla Gold

Tanacetum vulgare 'Isla Gold' is a very pretty variety of tansy, distinguished by its golden foliage from spring to autumn, as well as its more moderate growth and less exuberant temperament than its wild cousin. This truly sun-loving perennial blooms in summer, in the form of flat inflorescences composed of numerous small golden heads. Easy to grow in any soil that is not too dry and in the sun, in a pot or in the ground, without maintenance, this fragrant plant is highly appreciated in a yellow flower bed, in partial shade.

Tansy is a robust perennial plant, belonging to the family Asteraceae, which grows spontaneously in the wild along country roads in Europe and as far as Siberia. 

Smaller than the typical species, the 'Isla Gold' variety will not exceed 60 to 70 cm (24 to 28in) in all directions. It is also more restrained and does not self-seed as freely. Tanacetum vulgare Isla Gold has upright stems that bear finely cut foliage, reminiscent of yarrow or certain ferns, which are a stunning bright yellow colour, even in summer. The plant produces hundreds of small round heads from July to September, which are a beautiful bright yellow, gathered in flat and round inflorescences. Its leaves and flowers are slightly fragrant, but slightly less fragrant than the wild species. The plant spreads slowly thanks to its weakly trailing rootstocks. You can grow it in a pot or in the ground by cutting off the shoots. It is a hardy plant, at least down to -15°C (5°F), requiring little maintenance.

Tansy 'Isla Gold' pairs well with red blooms, such as those of Polygonum speciosum or Echinacea 'Vintage Wine', as well as purple foliage. It thrives in ordinary soil that is not too dry in wildflower beds and slightly wild areas, alongside robust perennials such as large daisies, comfrey, helenies, Helianthus salicifolius, or even tall thistles (Cardoon, Globe thistle, Eryngium planum...). It also pairs well with viper's bugloss (Echium vulgare) and chamomile (Chamaelum nobile 'Flore Pleno'). Its flowers, whether fresh or dried, will brighten up your bouquets.