Feverfew Growing Guide

Plant in early spring after the last frost in Spring. Keep seed in constant moisture with temperatures of at least 65°F. Seeds must be covered thinly. Do not cover very small seeds, but tightly press into the earth. Keep in partial to full sun. Keep out of danger of high winds. Since feverfew prefers warmer temperatures and full sun, it may require watering multiple times a week so that the roots can receive enough moisture. Seeds are best sown in the spring after all frosting has passed, as feverfew is not very cold hardy and prefers warmer temperatures. Feverfew will bloom significantly more in its second year than its first.

The name feverfew originates from Latin word “febrifugia”, which means “fever reducer”. Feverfew is also known as wild chamomile because of its small, yellow-white flowers.

Feverfew should be harvested in the second year by swathing the leaves and flowers while in full bloom (mid July). We recommend leaving four inches for regrowth to allow a second cut later in the season. Leaves can be harvested any time during the season, and flowers can be harvested as soon as they start blooming. The essential oils in the plant are highest just as flowering is beginning. Feverfew should be dried on screens out of direct sunlight for 10 – 14 days.

Keep dried leaves and heads of flowers in glass containers or burlap bag in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place.You can make a tincture of the fresh or dried leaves and flowers by infusing them in a jar of alcohol. Store the jar in a dark location for several weeks, shaking it daily. After about six weeks, you can strain out the plant material.