German chamomile
matricaria recutita
Also known as: ["Chamomilla recutita","Wild chamomile"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, known for its medicinal properties and pleasant aroma.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Matricaria |
| Botanical Name: | Matricaria recutita |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or overgrown stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, if at all, as it is not a heavy feeder
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds are also viable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright 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 parent plants; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead regularly; trim back to just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; 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, stunted growth, or flower drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if needed; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature bud drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGerman chamomile is generally non-toxic to cats. It is occasionally used in small amounts for its calming effects. However, ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicGerman chamomile is generally non-toxic to dogs. It is sometimes used in small amounts to soothe digestive issues or as a calming agent. However, ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicMatricaria recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in herbal teas and topical preparations for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. However, individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family may experience allergic reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is German chamomile safe for pets?
A: Yes, German chamomile is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I use German chamomile medicinally?
A: The dried flowers are commonly steeped into tea for relaxation and digestive aid.
Q: Does German chamomile require much care?
A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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