German chamomile
matricaria chamomilla
Also known as: ["Chamomilla recutita","Wild chamomile","Scented mayweed"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant in the daisy family, known for its small, daisy-like flowers and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Matricaria |
| Botanical Name: | Matricaria chamomilla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open ground or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove dead or overgrown stems without drastically reducing plant size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; provide morning sun and afternoon shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used for propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for pinching.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape the plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop or flower discoloration.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a protected area; use frost cloth for garden plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChamomile is generally considered non-toxic to cats. However, ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is sometimes used in feline care products for its calming effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicChamomile is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. However, ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is sometimes used in pet care products for its soothing properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicMatricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, it may cause allergic reactions in individuals with known sensitivities to plants in the Asteraceae family. The plant is widely used in herbal teas and topical applications for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause allergic reactions in some individuals
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is German chamomile safe for pets?
A: Yes, German chamomile is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can German chamomile be used for tea?
A: Yes, it is commonly used to make herbal tea for its calming properties.
Q: Does German chamomile attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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