Chamomile is a widely cultivated herb, known for its daisy-like flowers and apple-scented foliage. The plant’s final size depends heavily on its specific variety and growing conditions. Generally, chamomile plants can range in height from a low-lying 3 inches to an upright 36 inches when fully mature.
Height Differences Between German and Roman Chamomile
The most significant factor determining a chamomile plant’s height is its genetic makeup. German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an annual plant with a distinctively upright growth habit. This variety typically reaches a height between 12 and 24 inches, though highly fertile conditions can sometimes push its growth to nearly 3 feet tall. German chamomile produces a single flower on each stem, resulting in a taller, more branching, and less dense appearance.
In contrast, Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a perennial plant characterized by its low-growing, creeping habit. It is often used as a fragrant ground cover or lawn substitute because it spreads outward. Roman chamomile rarely exceeds 12 inches in height, with many plants staying in the 3 to 6-inch range. Its substantial, hairy stems branch out to support multiple flowers, contributing to its dense, carpet-like appearance.
Environmental Factors that Influence Growth
External conditions can cause significant differences in the final size of the plant. Light exposure plays a substantial role, as chamomile planted in full sun generally flowers best and grows faster than those in partial shade. Too much shade can cause the plant to become “leggy,” meaning it stretches out with weak stems in search of light, which increases its height but reduces its overall robustness.
The composition of the soil also affects the plant’s growth pattern. Chamomile prefers light, well-draining soil and does not require rich fertility. Over-fertilization, especially with nitrogen, encourages excessive leaf and stem growth, leading to a tall, spindly plant with fewer flowers. Conversely, very poor soil may result in stems that are floppier and less capable of supporting significant height.
The local climate and water management also influence the plant’s final stature. While established plants are drought-tolerant, consistent moderate watering is necessary during the early growth stages to support healthy development. Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings helps prevent the plant from becoming excessively large and weak.
Managing Growth Habit and Size Through Maintenance
Gardeners can actively influence the height and density of their chamomile plants through regular maintenance practices. The most effective method is consistent harvesting, which acts as a form of deadheading. Removing the fully open flowers before they set seed signals the plant to divert its energy away from reproduction and toward producing new vegetative growth. This process encourages lateral branching, resulting in a bushier, denser plant that is often shorter than an unmanaged one.
If the plant begins to look sparse or spindly mid-season, a more aggressive pruning can reset its growth. Cutting the stems back by about one-third, or down to approximately 4 inches from the soil line, promotes a flush of new, more compact growth. This technique is particularly useful for German chamomile to maintain a tidy shape and for Roman chamomile to manage its spread. Pruning the tips of young chamomile plants also encourages branching, leading to a more compact, well-rounded form from the start.