Plant Profile: Roman Chamomile

Roman Chamomile

Scientific Name: Chamaemelum nobile

Plant Type: Perennial

Difficulty: Easy

Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Height: 4-12 inches (10-30 cm)

Seeds Produced: 500-5,000+ seeds per plant

What Is It?

Roman chamomile is a low-growing, aromatic perennial herb native to Western Europe and North Africa. A member of the daisy family, it produces delicate white flowers with bright yellow centers and fern-like foliage that releases a pleasant apple-like fragrance when crushed. It is commonly grown for herbal teas, ornamental ground cover, and pollinator gardens.

Historical Uses

Roman chamomile has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. The ancient Egyptians associated chamomile with the sun god Ra and valued it for its soothing properties. The Greeks and Romans used it in herbal preparations, while medieval Europeans planted it in monastery gardens for both medicinal and culinary purposes. It was also commonly scattered across floors to release its pleasant scent when walked upon.

Growing Information

Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

Water Requirements: Moderate. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant.

Plant Height: 4-12 inches (10-30 cm)

Spacing: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm)

Germination Time: 10-21 days

Time to Bloom: 60-90 days from seed

Where Should It Be Grown?

✓ Raised Beds

✓ Containers

✓ Planters

✓ Herb Gardens

✓ Rock Gardens

✓ Directly in Garden Soil

Roman chamomile makes an excellent edging plant and can also be used as a fragrant ground cover in low-traffic areas.

Wildlife Protection: Generally not required. Deer and rabbits usually avoid Roman chamomile because of its strong aromatic oils.

How to Grow

Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil, as they require light to germinate. Do not bury the seeds deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

Once established, Roman chamomile requires little maintenance. Trim spent flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming throughout the growing season.

Harvesting

Harvest flowers once they are fully open on a dry morning after the dew has evaporated.

Flowers may be used fresh or dried for later use.

Harvest foliage as needed throughout the growing season.

Seed Collection & Storage

Collection Method:

Allow flower heads to dry naturally on the plant. Once brown and fully mature, gently rub the flower heads between your fingers to release the tiny seeds. Remove excess plant material before storing.

Storage Method:

Store seeds in a paper envelope or airtight container in a cool, dark, dry location.

Seed Viability:

Approximately 3-5 years when properly stored.

Nutritional Benefits

Roman chamomile flowers naturally contain:

• Flavonoids

• Apigenin

• Antioxidants

• Essential oils

• Polyphenols

While not considered a significant source of vitamins or minerals, chamomile has long been valued for its naturally occurring plant compounds.

Additional Benefits

• Excellent pollinator plant

• Highly fragrant flowers and foliage

• Suitable for herbal teas

• Attractive ground cover

• Deer and rabbit resistant

• Drought tolerant once established

• Excellent companion plant for many herbs and vegetables

• Low maintenance perennial

Interesting Fact

Unlike many herbs that dislike being stepped on, Roman chamomile was once planted between stone pathways and throughout medieval gardens because walking across it released its sweet apple-like fragrance into the air.