Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) produces white, daisy-like flowers from midsummer to late in the fall on perennial plants to 2 feet in height with nicely dissected green leaves. It grows best in full sun with moderate moisture and moderate fertilization. It is avoided by most herbivores because of the chemical constituents in the leaves.

The common name is derived from the Latin febrifugia (fever reducer). During the Middle Ages it was also recommended for tonic, digestive, and emmenagogic (menstruation-provoking) properties. Modern medicine has documented a series of negative side affects associated with the use of feverfew, but has been unable to confirm beneficial uses. A close relative of feverfew was used to flavor ale before the use of hops was adopted.

The native range for feverfew extends from the Balkans to the Caucasus region. Because of its folk-medicine reputation, it was carried by emigrants from Europe on their voyages and can now be found naturalized in parts of North America and Chile.