Chamomile is a widely popular herb, cherished globally for its small, daisy-like flowers used extensively in medicinal preparations and calming teas. The two most common varieties are German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), an upright annual, and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), a lower-growing perennial often used as a groundcover. Successful cultivation requires understanding its environmental needs, especially sunlight, which impacts growth and the potency of its aromatic oils.
Understanding Chamomile’s Light Preferences
Chamomile generally thrives in full sun, meaning the plant receives a minimum of six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily. This high light exposure is important for maximizing the production of flower heads and the concentration of essential oils that give chamomile its characteristic scent and calming properties. Roman chamomile is somewhat more tolerant of partial shade, but still produces better blooms with more sun.
The preference for full sun is highly dependent on the local climate. In regions experiencing intense summer heat, particularly those above 85°F, afternoon shade is highly beneficial. Direct midday sun can scorch delicate petals and foliage, causing the plant to droop or bolt prematurely. Gardeners in warm areas should aim for a location that receives strong morning sun but is protected from the harshest late afternoon rays.
Necessary Environmental Inputs
Beyond light, healthy chamomile growth relies on specific soil and temperature conditions. The plant prefers soil that is not overly rich in nutrients; a moderately poor to average fertility is often better. Rich soil encourages excessive leafy growth and can result in floppy stems. The soil must allow for excellent drainage, ideally a sandy or loamy composition, to prevent root rot, which is a common issue for this herb. Chamomile is adaptable to a wide range of soil acidity, performing well in a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.6 to 7.5.
Watering and Temperature
Once established, the plants are quite drought-tolerant, meaning they do not require constant watering. However, young seedlings and plants in the flowering stage need consistent, moderate moisture. Water is required when the top inch of soil feels dry.
The plant is generally considered a cool-season annual, thriving in moderate temperatures between 60°F and 68°F during its active spring growth. While it can tolerate summer temperatures up to 100°F, continuous high heat will often cause the plant to slow its flowering. German chamomile (annual) is less frost-hardy than its perennial Roman counterpart, which is known for its ability to survive light frosts.
Practical Cultivation and Harvesting
Chamomile is easily started from seed. Since seeds require light for successful germination, the tiny seeds should be pressed lightly onto the soil surface rather than buried. Seeding can occur indoors about six weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors in early spring.
When planting out, German chamomile should be spaced about eight to twelve inches apart. The creeping Roman variety can be planted closer for a dense groundcover. General maintenance is minimal, as chamomile typically does not require supplemental fertilizer, which can actually reduce flowering. Weeding is important, especially for young plants, as they struggle with competition from aggressive weeds.
Harvesting Flowers
To maximize the yield, the flowers should be harvested when they are fully open, typically when the white petals begin to arch slightly backward toward the stem. Harvesting the flower heads regularly acts as a form of deadheading, encouraging the plant to produce subsequent flushes of blooms throughout the season. The flowers are best collected in the morning after the dew has dried, as this is when the concentration of aromatic oils is highest. Simply pinching or snipping the flower head, leaving the stem, is the most common method for gathering the yield for drying and use in tea.