Feverfew

Botanically this is Tanacetum parthenium, an old medicinal plant once used against fever and migraine, hence the English name feverfew. For floristry, varieties with especially rich bloom were developed, such as the double, pompon-like Snowball or Single Vegmo with its classic daisy face.

In floral work feverfew is a filler with a face of its own: unlike gypsophila it does not blur into a mist but sets many small, clearly drawn flower dots. That gives meadow bouquets rhythm and visibly loosens up compact rose arrangements.

Stylistically it is the link between garden flower and modern floristry: with marguerites and cornflowers you get the classic country bouquet, with white roses and plenty of greenery a fresh, uncomplicated bridal bouquet in a natural key. In wreaths and hair flowers it also holds up remarkably long without water.

When buying we look for stems where only part of the buds have opened, and for rich green foliage. The foliage betrays age first: if it yellows, the stock stood too long. The herbal, slightly bitter scent of the plant is normal and no sign of poor freshness.

Worth knowing: feverfew contains parthenolide, a compound that can upset the stomachs of cats and dogs and trigger contact allergies in sensitive people, as many composites do. The bouquet therefore belongs out of reach of pets, and anyone prone to allergies should wash their hands after arranging.