Matricaria chamomilla German Chamomile Matricaria chamomilla German Chamomile is a graceful, sweet-scented annual herb, valued for its profusion of daisy-like flowers and calming properties. Growing to about 12 to 24 inches tall with a spread of 10 to 12 inches, this variety is perfect for tea gardens, wildflower meadows, and cottage borders where both fragrance and utility are desired. Unlike the low-growing perennial Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile grows upright and produces a higher volume of essential oils, offering a generous harvest of apple-scented blossoms that are the gold standard for herbal teas. Culinary and Practical Uses The dried flower heads are famous for brewing into a soothing, golden tea with mild notes of apple and honey, traditionally used to promote sleep and relaxation. The fresh flowers are edible and make a charming, sweet-scented garnish for salads, desserts, and craft cocktails. Traditionally used in herbal practices to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and soothe skin irritations when used in salves or baths. Characteristics Foliage: Light green, feathery, fern-like leaves that are aromatic when crushed; the fine texture adds a soft, airy quality to garden beds. Growth Habit: Upright, branching annual that self-seeds freely; often returns year after year if a few blooms are left on the plant. Flowers: Produces masses of small, daisy-like blooms with white petals surrounding a conical, hollow yellow center; the fragrance is reminiscent of green apples. Seeds: Harvested after the flower petals droop and the center cone dries to a tan color; seeds are tiny and require light to germinate. Growing Requirements Sun: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; prefers full sun for maximum flower production but benefits from some afternoon shade in very hot climates. Soil: Adapts to most soil types but prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil; tolerates poor soil conditions better than rich, heavy clay. Water: Requires moderate watering; established plants are drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture during the seedling stage is crucial. Spacing: Plant seeds or thin seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and prevent mildew. Maintenance: Harvest flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming; deadhead spent blooms if you wish to prevent the plant from self-seeding aggressively. Shipping Info German Chamomile seeds ship as fresh, high-quality, viable seeds that are carefully packaged for stability and protection from damage during transit. Prompt shipping supports reliable germination and seasonally appropriate planting.
