The white petaled daisy-like flowers with yellow centers are the main commercial source of the insecticide pyrethrum. Leaves are finely cut grayish green and somewhat fleshy/succulent. Plant in full sun in average garden soil. Prefers a pH between 7.5 and 8.5. Dry, well drained alkaline soil in full sun will produce the most pyrethrin. The plants will grow well in rich fertile soil but the pyrethrin content will be lower. Harvest flowers when they are at their peak and dry them out of direct sun. Freezing them will help them keep their potency for months - otherwise the pyrethrin breaks down in a matter of weeks. Most cultivation of this plant for commercial production is in Kenya, Yugoslavia and South America. Packet: $3.50