Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a low-growing perennial evergreen plant that can grow to be 20 to 30 cm tall. Roman chamomile flowers bloom from summer to fall and have daisy-like white petals and yellow centers. This wildflower is edible.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Chamaemelum nobile, commonly known as chamomile (also spelled camomile), is a low perennial plant found in dry fields and around gardens and cultivated grounds in Europe, North America, and South America. Its synonym is Anthemis nobilis, with various common names, such as Roman chamomile, English chamomile, garden chamomile, ground apple, low chamomile, mother’s daisy or whig plant.
The word chamomile and the genus name Chamaemelum derive from the Greek χαμαίμηλον (chamaimÄ“lon), “earth-apple”, from χαμαί (chamai), “on the ground” + μήλον (mÄ“lon), “apple”, so-called because of the apple-like scent of the plant.
The plant obtained the name “nobile” (Latin “noble” NEU) because of its putative therapeutic properties, which were believed to be better than those of the German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.).
Chamaemelum nobile has daisy-like white flowers and procumbent stems; the leaves are alternate, bipinnate, finely dissected, and downy to glabrous. The solitary, terminal flowerheads, rising 20–30 cm (8–12 in) above the ground, consist of prominent yellow disk flowers and silver-white ray flowers. The flowering time in the Northern Hemisphere is June and July, and its fragrance is sweet, crisp, fruity and herbaceous. Although the plant is often confused with German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), its morphology, properties and chemical composition are markedly different.
Chamaemelum nobile is listed as least concern on the Red List but the plant population trend in the UK is decreasing at a significant rate. This decline in the Chamaemelum nobile population was caused by the drainage of wet grasslands, decrease in grazing, and the reduction of pasture that was used as arable fields. There is speculation that wild plant collecting may also be a cause of this species population decline.
Although the species population is declining there are a few plants placed in at least one land and water protected area. There are no educational awareness programs, international legislations, or international management for this species.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight and Soil
It requires full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, making it suitable for a variety of garden settings.
Watering
Roman chamomile thrives in well-drained soil, mirroring its origins where it does not sit in excessive moisture. This species exhibits a preference for consistent moisture but is capable of withstanding brief periods of dryness. Watering every week will maintain its optimal hydration balance. Roman chamomile is typically cultivated outdoors and has adapted to flourish during the growing season when rainfall patterns are moderate to high, ensuring that water availability aligns with its active growth phases.
Fertilizing
For optimal growth, roman chamomile benefits from balanced nutrition fertilizer but requires a high-phosphorus blend to encourage blooming. Fertilize monthly during growing seasons—spring to early fall. Apply a quarter-strength dilution to avoid nutrient overload, which can harm roman chamomile. In colder months, limit feeding as growth slows. Withhold fertilizer in winter to prevent stress. Fertilization enhances roman chamomile’s vitality, bloom quality, and resistance to pests. Always water roman chamomile after fertilizing to aid absorption and prevent root burn.
Propagation
A perennial herb with feathery leaves and daisy-like flowers, roman chamomile can be effectively propagated through division, a straightforward method that entails separating mature plants into smaller segments. Gardeners should gently tease apart the root system, ensuring each new section possesses adequate roots and shoots for successful re-establishment. Careful handling and immediate transplantation into well-drained soil can promote healthy growth in roman chamomile, allowing enthusiasts to expand their collection with ease and affordability.
Transplanting
Ideal transplantation times for roman chamomile are late spring to early summer (S2-S3). This period offers mild temperatures and plentiful sunlight, encouraging strong root development. Roman chamomile prefers a sunny or partially shaded location. Tip: Make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
III. Uses and Benefits
- Ornamental uses
The roman chamomile forms a dense, decorative mat that provides ornamentation in any garden, particularly when its showy flowers bloom in the summer. It thrives in sunny, well-drained rock and cottage garden beds and borders, where it accents other wildflowers. Its fast-spreading foliage and stems also provide good ground cover during every season except winter.
- Medicinal uses
Although used in folk medicine, there is no scientific evidence it has any medicinal uses. Alternative medicine practices approved in Germany include use of chamomile as a topical medication or inhalant for mouth and respiratory tract irritations.
Chamomile is likely unsafe for use during pregnancy, and its topical use for skin disorders may cause contact dermatitis. There are no known interactions with prescription drugs. Consuming chamomile tea may adversely affect anticoagulant drugs.
- Cosmetic uses
Extracts or dried flowers of Chamaemelum nobile are used in hair care and skincare products. The plant may be used to flavor foods and in herbal teas, perfumes, and cosmetics. It is used in aromatherapy in the belief it is a calming agent to reduce stress and promote sleep. Chamomile essential oil contains sesquiterpenes, terpene lactones (including the blue compound, chamazulene), acetylene derivatives, and polyphenols, which contribute to the fragrance and may be extracted individually.
It can be used to create a fragrant chamomile lawn. A chamomile lawn needs light soil, adequate moisture, and sun to thrive. Each square meter contains 83–100 plants. The lawn is only suitable to light foot traffic or in places where mower access is difficult.
