Pyrethrum

Pyrethrum is well known as a natural insect repellant/insecticide made from the sap of the plant. Pyrethrins attack the nervous system of all insects, and inhibit female mosquitos from biting. As an insecticide they do not persist, being biodegradable and also decompose easily on exposure to light.

Pyrethrum does also produce attractive white daisy like flowers that have their place as a plant in a sunny garden border where the flowers will attract beneficial insects without harming them. Dead head to prolong flowering and encourage a second flush.

The plant is also used in companion planting.

Naturally low germination capacity. Germination of around 40% to be expected.