Common chamomile
description
Common chamomile (Matricaria recutita), offered by the seed company WH Perron
Common chamomile is a very floriferous plant prized for its small, delicately fragrant white flowers with yellow centers . Its light, branching habit reaches 40 to 50 cm in height and 15 to 20 cm in spread, quickly forming attractive, airy clumps. It is ideal for preparing soothing herbal teas and blends naturally into herb gardens and country-style flowerbeds.
Easy to grow and undemanding, chamomile readily self-seeds when conditions are favorable. It offers a generous and prolonged flowering period with minimal maintenance. The flowers are harvested young, at the optimal stage, to preserve their aroma and properties.
Latin name: Matricaria recutita
Maturity: Perennial
Plant height: 40 to 50 cm
Spread: 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet: Approximately 500 seeds
Formulation: Untreated
Uses: Herbal teas, herb garden, flower beds
Companion plants: Garlic, Swiss chard, beetroot, cucumber, gherkin, cabbage, onion
Enemy plants: Mint
Cultivation method:
For early flowering, sow indoors in April , placing the seeds on the surface (do not cover: light is necessary for germination). For direct sowing, sow in May or June after all risk of frost has passed. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix ; in the garden, chamomile adapts to all types of soil , ideally enriched with well-rotted compost .
Space the plants 25 to 30 cm apart . Plant in full sun to partial shade . Once established, maintain moderate humidity without overwatering; the plant is tolerant and self-sufficient.
Interview :
Chamomile requires very little maintenance . Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage new blooms. At the end of the season, cut back the stems ; the plant will regrow vigorously in the spring. To rejuvenate the clumps, divide them every three years in the autumn.
Harvesting and storage:
Harvest the freshly opened flowers, preferably in the morning . Dry them flat , in a dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight . When the flowers turn slightly brown and crumble, they are ready. Store in an airtight container in a dry place.
Simple, generous, and soothing
Common chamomile is a must-have classic for anyone seeking an easy-to-grow, useful, and naturally beautiful plant. Perfect for homemade herbal teas and low-maintenance gardens, it brings sweetness and abundance season after season.
