Chamomile Plants

Chamaemelum, commonly known as chamomile, is a delightful genus celebrated for its medicinal properties, calming fragrance, and elegant appearance. These dainty, feathery plants with cheerful, daisy-like flowers bring a soothing charm to any garden while offering a host of practical uses.

Whether you’re an avid herbalist or simply enjoy natural beauty, Chamaemelum is a versatile addition.

Characteristics

Chamaemelum species are herbaceous perennials known for their aromatic foliage and charming blooms. The small, white flowers with sunny yellow centres are instantly recognisable and often associated with peace and relaxation. They bloom abundantly during summer, creating a radiant carpet of flowers when planted en masse.

Typically low-growing, reaching heights of 20-50 cm, Chamaemelum is ideal for groundcover or borders. The finely textured, fern-like leaves release a gentle apple-like scent when brushed against or crushed, further enhancing their appeal.

What makes Chamaemelum truly unique is its dual role as both an ornamental and a functional plant. Its flowers are famously used to create calming teas and tinctures, while its essential oils are valued for skincare and aromatherapy.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Chamaemelum thrives in a sunny location but can tolerate light shade, especially during hot summers, making it a flexible choice for various garden positions. It is well-suited to temperate climates but can withstand occasional light frosts.

Good drainage is critical for these plants, as they dislike waterlogged areas. Raised beds, rockeries, or garden edges with well-aerated soils are perfect spots for a healthy, happy Chamaemelum. While chamomile loves sun-kissed spots, ensuring it receives protection from strong, drying winds will help it retain its lush appearance.

Soil and Substrates

Chamaemelum is more forgiving than most when it comes to soil, thriving in a variety of conditions. However, for best results, aim for the following:

Loamy Soil
Loam with good drainage is the ideal choice, offering the perfect blend of aeration and moisture retention.

Sandy Soil
Chamaemelum adapts well to sandy soils, provided they are sufficiently enriched with organic matter to hold moisture and nutrients.

Potted Conditions
Use a light, free-draining potting mix when growing Chamaemelum in containers. This setup is ideal for patios, balconies, or herb gardens.

Although Chamaemelum tolerates less fertile soils, adding compost or manure in early spring will encourage full blooms and lush growth.

Care Tips

Low-maintenance and easy-going, Chamaemelum is suited to gardeners of all experience levels. Follow these tips for optimal growth:

Watering
While drought-tolerant once established, regular watering is important during dry spells or while the plant is young. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot.

Fertilising
Chamaemelum is not a heavy feeder, but a light application of organic fertiliser in spring will give it a boost for the growing season.

Pruning
Deadhead spent flowers to extend the blooming period and maintain a tidy appearance. Cutting back the plant after flowering can rejuvenate growth and prepare it for the following year.

Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially during warmer months.

Pest Control
Rarely troubled by pests, Chamaemelum’s aromatic properties may repel many garden insects. Occasional aphids or spider mites can be resolved with insecticidal soap or a quick blast of water.

Common Species

Chamaemelum’s small genus is home to a few beloved varieties, each with unique characteristics. Some of the most popular include:

Chamaemelum nobile (Roman Chamomile)
Known as the classic garden chamomile, this low-growing plant is favoured for its aromatic flowers and calming herbal properties. Perfect as a lawn substitute or groundcover, it is a staple for herbalists and gardeners alike.

Chamaemelum nobile ‘Treneague’
A non-flowering cultivar, this variety is widely used as a decorative groundcover or lawn alternative. Its dense, green foliage is compact and requires minimal mowing or maintenance.

Chamaemelum mixtum (Corn Chamomile)
A more upright species with cheerful blooms, this variety often self-seeds and is fantastic for cottage-style or wildflower gardens.

German Chamomile

German chamomile, scientifically known as Matricaria chamomilla, is a delicate and highly fragrant annual herb renowned for its medicinal properties and charming appearance. While often compared to Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), this species has its own unique qualities that make it a favourite among gardeners and herbal enthusiasts.

Characteristics

German chamomile typically grows taller than its Roman counterpart, reaching heights of 30-60 cm. Its slender, slightly branching stems bear fine, feathery foliage and produce an abundance of small, daisy-like flowers.

These blooms feature bright white petals surrounding a domed yellow centre, exuding a mild apple-like fragrance that enhances any garden space.

Unlike Roman chamomile, which is perennial, German chamomile completes its life cycle in a single growing season, but it readily self-seeds, ensuring a continued presence in your garden year after year. Its upright growth habit makes it well-suited for flower beds and herb gardens alike.

Growing Conditions

German chamomile prefers a sunny position but tolerates partial shade in hotter climates. It thrives in well-draining soils, particularly those that are light and sandy. Rich, fertile soils may encourage excessive foliage at the expense of flowers, so moderation is key.

This herb is remarkably adaptable and can even grow in less-than-ideal conditions, as long as waterlogging is avoided.

To achieve lush, healthy plants, sow seeds or transplants after the last frost in temperate zones. Water regularly during the establishment phase, but once mature, the plant becomes fairly drought-tolerant. Mulching with organic materials can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Medicinal Properties and Uses

German chamomile has been used for centuries as a healing herb and continues to be valued today for its wide range of medicinal benefits

Relaxation and Sleep Aid
Its flowers are rich in antioxidants like apigenin, a compound known for its calming effects. These properties make German chamomile a popular ingredient in teas and tinctures aimed at reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

Digestive Health
Chamomile infusions are widely used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and stomach cramps, providing a natural remedy for upset stomachs.

Skin Care
The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a useful ingredient in creams and salves for soothing skin irritations, burns, and rashes.

Cough and Cold Relief
Chamomile tea or steam can help ease respiratory discomfort during colds and flu, thanks to its soothing and mucous-reducing qualities.

Differences from Roman Chamomile

The most notable difference between German and Roman chamomile lies in their growth habits—German chamomile is an annual, while Roman chamomile is perennial.

German chamomile also grows taller, has a lighter and more delicate fragrance, and produces flowers that are slightly more favoured for medicinal preparations due to their higher concentration of active compounds.

Whether grown for its beauty, herbal value, or both, German chamomile is a rewarding plant to cultivate. Its combination of fragrant charm and versatile uses makes it a staple for any garden, from cottage herb beds to dedicated medicinal plant collections.

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Roman chamomile, also known as Chamaemelum nobile, is a perennial herb celebrated for its classic beauty, soothing fragrance, and diverse uses in gardening and herbal medicine. Perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in any garden, this plant combines practicality with charm, making it an enduring favourite among nature enthusiasts.

Characteristics

Roman chamomile is a low-growing plant, reaching around 20-30 cm in height, with a creeping habit that allows it to spread out beautifully. Its feathery, bright green foliage boasts a sweet apple-like scent that is released when touched or crushed.

During midsummer, daisy-like flowers appear, featuring white petals encircling a golden-yellow centre, creating a radiant display that catches the eye. For non-flowering applications, cultivars such as ‘Treneague’ offer dense, aromatic foliage without the blooms, ideal for lawns or groundcovers.

The plant’s ability to spread and form soft, scented carpets makes it perfect for edging pathways, filling borders, or acting as a fragrant lawn substitute in gardens designed for sensory enjoyment.

Growing Conditions

Roman chamomile prefers temperate climates and does well in full sun to partial shade. It thrives in well-drained, sandy, or moderately fertile soil but shows resilience in poorer conditions, as long as its roots don’t sit in waterlogged ground. Once established, it exhibits drought tolerance, making it a reliable choice for sustainable or low-maintenance gardens.

When planting, start by loosening the soil and applying compost to encourage strong growth. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, while a yearly dose of organic fertiliser promotes dense foliage and vibrant blooms. Hardy to light frosts, Roman chamomile is a steadfast addition to gardens across a variety of regions.

Uses

The versatility of Roman chamomile extends to ornamental applications, herbal medicine, and companion planting:

Ornamental Gardening
Roman chamomile’s creeping nature makes it a standout choice for pathways, rock gardens, and aromatic lawns. It also thrives in containers, providing portable bursts of fragrance and charm.

Herbal Medicine
Known for its calming effects, Roman chamomile is used in preparations like teas, tinctures, and essential oils to reduce stress, improve sleep, and soothe skin irritations or digestive complaints. Its therapeutic properties have cemented its reputation as an invaluable herbal remedy.

Companion Planting
This plant improves garden health by repelling pests and enriching surrounding soil, benefiting vegetables and other herbs in companion planting schemes.

Whether used to soften garden spaces or as a traditional herbal solution, Roman chamomile delivers beauty, fragrance, and functionality. Its timeless appeal and ease of care make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.

Chamaemelum nobile ‘MAC01’ PBR Trade Name Calm-o-mile™

Calm-O-Mile™ chamomile is a delightful and hardy hybrid bred for its vibrant green foliage and resistance to extreme climates. Known for its calming properties, this plant combines charm with durability, making it an excellent landscaping or garden feature.

Characteristics and Appeal

Calm-O-Mile™ chamomile distinguishes itself with lush green leaves and a low-growing, spreading habit. It stays compact, making it ideal for creating tidy edges along pathways or as groundcover in small to medium-sized gardens.

During its peak season, its fine leaves add a textural element to landscapes, blending effortlessly into rustic, cottage, or modern garden designs.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Thriving in full sun locations, Calm-O-Mile™ chamomile prefers well-drained soils but exhibits a robust tolerance to varying conditions, including drought. It’s an ideal option for Australian gardens, where its hardiness ensures it flourishes even in challenging environments.

Whether planted en masse to create a soft, textural look or used as a solitary feature, Calm-O-Mile™ is easy to maintain and enjoys minimal care once established.

Uses in Landscaping

Calm-O-Mile™ is a versatile plant with multiple garden applications, such as:

Groundcover
Its compact growth makes it perfect for filling gaps between larger plants or carpeting bare soil in rockeries or garden beds.

Fragrant Borders
Calm-O-Mile™’s fine foliage creates neat, aromatic borders for pathways and driveways.

Container Gardening
An ideal choice for pots, this plant brings greenery to patios and balconies, requiring little watering or upkeep.

Lawns and Alternatives
Flowering chamomile lawns are visually striking, aromatic, and require less maintenance than conventional grass. This variety is much more suitable than any other variety that I know of, because it’s shorter, more resilient and it has a more lawn-like appearance than other chamomiles which tend to be a bit taller and leggier.

Herb Gardens
Popular in kitchen gardens, chamomile is a valued companion plant, known to benefit surrounding herbs and vegetables while adding functionality with its edible flowers.

Borders and Edges
Its compact habit and soft aesthetic work beautifully to frame garden beds, paving stones, or driveways.

Potted Accents
Compact Chamaemelum varieties like this thrive in containers, providing mobile bursts of fragrance and flowers for patios, balconies, or conservatories.

For gardeners seeking a durable yet elegant addition to their space, Calm-O-Mile™ offers plenty of benefits. Its calming aesthetic and resilience make it a smart choice for busy gardeners who still want a lush and fragrant outdoor retreat.

Uses in Landscaping

Chamaemelum is a versatile choice for gardens, offering both visual beauty and practical applications. Here are some ways it can be used:

Groundcover
Roman chamomile’s creeping habit makes it a superb choice for covering bare soil, rockeries, or pathways with a splash of green and white.

Herb Gardens
Popular in kitchen gardens, chamomile is a valued companion plant, known to benefit surrounding herbs and vegetables while adding functionality with its edible flowers.

Lawns and Alternatives
Flowering chamomile lawns are visually striking, aromatic, and require less maintenance than conventional grass. For non-flowering options, cultivars like ‘Treneague’ make excellent substitutes.

Borders and Edges
Its compact habit and soft aesthetic work beautifully to frame garden beds, paving stones, or driveways.

Potted Accents
Compact Chamaemelum species thrive in containers, providing mobile bursts of fragrance and flowers for patios, balconies, or conservatories.

Benefits

Chamaemelum offers a long list of benefits for gardeners and beyond:

Medicinal Uses
Roman chamomile is renowned for its calming properties, often used in teas to promote better sleep and alleviate stress. Its essential oils are also prized for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, commonly found in creams and balms.

Wildlife Support
The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Low Maintenance
Its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements make Chamaemelum a popular choice for both beginners and time-poor gardeners.

Visual and Aromatic Appeal
With its charming flowers and fragrant foliage, chamomile brings elegance and sensory delight to gardens of all styles.

Healthy Companionship
When planted in the garden, it protects nearby plants by repelling insects and improving soil conditions over time.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is super easy to make using fresh flowers. Simply cut them and put them straight into an infuser in your teacup or teapot, then add boiling water and wait 5 mins or so for the tea to steep. A lot of people remove the infuser, but I tend to keep it in because I like a bolder flavour.

Chamomile Flowers

Chamomile flowers are typical of the daisy family, Asteraceae. They’re technically a ‘compound flower,’ each containing countless tiny flowers within each flower ‘head.’ Each white petal represents an individual flower, as do each of the parts within the yellow centers.

Daniel’s Wrap

Chamaemelum is a modest yet remarkable genus, blending beauty with practical advantages. Its soothing fragrance, delicate blooms, and adaptability to different garden styles make it a valuable addition to any outdoor space.

Whether creating a medicinal herb garden, adding texture to borders, or supporting pollinators, this gentle plant delivers on all fronts. Try Chamaemelum in your garden and enjoy the benefits of its charm, resilience, and calming qualities for years to come.