Days to Maturity: 65
German Chamomile is an annual herb, grown for medicinal as well as ornamental purposes. Often referred to as the "star among medicinal species," chamomile has been used in herbal remedies for thousands of years. Chamomile's therapeutic, cosmetic, and nutritional benefits have not only been established through traditional use but also through scientific research. German Chamomile is best known for its healthful tea, which is made from the dried flowers and is used for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, healing, and sedative properties, among others. Its oil is also used in cosmetics and aromatherapy.
Blooming in early to midsummer, each plant sets about 15 flower heads over a month or two. Borne singly or in pairs, the sweet 1- to 2-inch flowers have pristine white rays, a domed center cone of bright golden yellow tubular florets, and a strong, fresh, fruity fragrance, resembling apple or pineapple. The nectar- and pollen-rich flowers sustain honeybees and butterflies and are followed by yellowish brown seeds that begin to ripen in late summer.
A Matricaria chamomilla, commonly called German chamomile, true chamomile, or wild chamomile, this herb is a member of the aster or daisy family (Asteraceae). A compact, bushy plant, it quickly produces erect, branched stems sparse with long, narrow, finely divided leaves that are aromatic when crushed. Although they smell pleasant, they taste bitter. The roots are shallow and spreading, and in optimal conditions, chamomile self-seeds freely if plants are not deadheaded immediately after blooming. The plant works well in beds and borders, but in areas with little foot-traffic, it can replace lawn areas.
A low-maintenance herb, easily grown from seed, German Chamomile grows best in sunny locations with well-draining sandy soil that is not too moist or dry. But it grows very successfully on poor soils, including on limey clay soils considered too poor for most crops. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil pH levels, including high alkalinity. But rich, damp soils should be avoided. The plants are deer resistant and drought tolerant, once established.
German Chamomile seeds can be started indoors about 6 weeks prior to the last expected frost date, gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days, and transplanted in warm spring soil after all risk of frost has passed.
If you plan to start your seeds indoors, be sure to check out our Bio Dome Seed Starter Kit. With the Bio Dome, you can control the temperature, light, and soil mix to ensure your seeds become strong for transplant.
