Mayweed
anthemis cotula
Also known as: ["Stinking Chamomile","Dog Fennel","Mayweed Chamomile"]
Overview
Anthemis cotula is an annual herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae, known for its pungent odor and small, white, daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Anthemis |
| Botanical Name: | Anthemis cotula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage; water deeply but infrequently.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean blades.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Can wilt or drop leaves in extreme heat; may bolt prematurely.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Anthemis cotula. The plant's volatile oils can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Anthemis cotula can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's volatile oils. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnthemis cotula, commonly known as mayweed or stinking chamomile, contains volatile oils that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anthemis cotula toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Anthemis cotula have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, it has been used in folk medicine, but its strong odor and potential toxicity limit modern use.
Q: How does Anthemis cotula differ from chamomile?
A: While both belong to the Asteraceae family, Anthemis cotula has a pungent odor and is considered a weed, unlike the more fragrant and cultivated chamomile species.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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