The Common Tansy is a perennial and considered regionally noxious under the BC Weed Control Act. It has established itself on the coast of BC and in many other areas of B.C., We have it all over the Campbell River area.
It has yellow disc flowers that resemble buttons in a flat-topped cluster at the top of the plant. With fern-like leaves, common tansy can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. Spread mainly through seeds and roots, tansy can be transported by the wind, animals, birds, the clothing of hikers, and on vehicles that have been in infested areas. The seeds of the plant can remain viable for up to 25 years, therefore, stopping seed spread is the main concern. Although a pretty plant, this plant can do serious damage to our coast’s natural habitat and needs to be controlled.
It prefers sunny areas with well-drained soil and often infests stream banks, fields, and disturbed sites such as roadsides and logged-over areas. It can be toxic to livestock and to humans if large quantities are consumed.