Chamomile
German chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, is the most commonly grown variety for chamomile blossoms. The plant produces fragrant flowers all summer long. The small, white daisy-like flowers have a pleasant pineapple flavor. They also attract beneficial insects and are self-seeding. The dried flowers are steeped in hot water to make one of the world’s most popular herbal teas.
How to grow
- Type: Annual
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Slightly alkaline preferred
- Water: Low water
- Size: 1 to 2 feet tall, 12 to 14 inches wide
When to plant/propagate
- From seed: Preferred; plant in early spring when soil temperature is above 55 deg. The plant is self-seeding
- Transplants: Transplant when plants are less than 1 to 2 inches in height
Harvesting
- Harvest flowers when near full bloom. May be used fresh or dried
- Preserving and drying herbs
Indoors
Can be grown indoors with 5 to 6 hours per day of bright light from a sunny window or 12 to 16 hours of supplemental light provided by cool white fluorescent or LED lamps
More links
- Grow Herbs!, UCCE Master Gardeners of Sacramento County
- Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, University of Wisconsin-Madison Master Gardener Program