By exploring the diverse varieties of Costmary seeds available, gardeners can cultivate vibrant landscapes and aromatic herb gardens that delight the senses year-round. Whether for ornamental display, culinary enhancement, or medicinal use, Costmary remains a beloved herb with enduring appeal.
Costmary, scientifically known as Tanacetum balsamita, is a perennial herb that has been cherished for centuries for its ornamental and medicinal properties. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, Costmary is native to Europe and Asia but has found its way into gardens around the world due to its aromatic foliage and attractive appearance. Among the various cultivars of Costmary, the diversity in seeds offers gardeners a wide array of choices to enhance their landscapes and herbal collections.
Costmary Seeds Varieties:
'Variegata' (Tanacetum balsamita 'Variegata'): This variety of Costmary is prized for its striking variegated foliage. The leaves feature contrasting patterns of green and creamy-white, adding a touch of elegance to any garden bed or container. 'Variegata' is particularly appealing when planted alongside other herbs or perennials, where its unique coloration can provide a delightful visual contrast.
'Lemonade' (Tanacetum balsamita 'Lemonade'): As the name suggests, this cultivar of Costmary boasts leaves with a refreshing lemon scent. Beyond its aromatic qualities, 'Lemonade' is valued for its culinary uses, adding a subtle citrus flavor to teas, salads, and desserts. Gardeners seeking both fragrance and utility will find 'Lemonade' an indispensable addition to their herb gardens.
'Crispum' (Tanacetum balsamita 'Crispum'): Also known as "crisped mint," this variety of Costmary features intricately curled leaves, giving it a unique texture and appearance. 'Crispum' adds a touch of whimsy to herb gardens and can be used as a decorative garnish in culinary dishes. Its foliage is also valued for its aromatic properties, making it a multifaceted addition to any herb collection.
'Silver' (Tanacetum balsamita 'Silver'): Characterized by its silver-gray foliage, this cultivar of Costmary offers a subtle yet striking presence in the garden. The silvery leaves reflect light beautifully, creating an ethereal glow in moonlit gardens or shady corners. 'Silver' is particularly well-suited for ornamental plantings, where its muted coloration can complement a variety of flowering plants and foliage.
'Goldenball' (Tanacetum balsamita 'Goldenball'): True to its name, 'Goldenball' showcases vibrant golden-yellow flowers that resemble miniature pom-poms. This cultivar adds a burst of color to herb gardens and borders, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its cheerful blooms. 'Goldenball' is a low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking to infuse their landscapes with warmth and vitality.
Cultivating Costmary from Seeds:
Growing Costmary from seeds is a rewarding endeavor that allows gardeners to experience the full spectrum of this versatile herb's characteristics. To start Costmary from seeds:
- Seed Selection: Choose high-quality Costmary seeds from reputable suppliers, ensuring viability and genetic integrity.
- Sowing: Sow Costmary seeds indoors in early spring or directly into well-drained soil outdoors after the threat of frost has passed. Plant seeds shallowly, barely covering them with soil.
- Light and Temperature: Provide Costmary seeds with ample sunlight and maintain a consistent temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) for optimal germination.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Once seedlings emerge, water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Transplanting: Thin seedlings to ensure adequate spacing, allowing mature Costmary plants to reach their full potential without overcrowding.
- Maintenance: Mulch around Costmary plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth and harvest leaves as needed for culinary or medicinal purposes.