Meadow Chamomile
anthemis secundiramea
Also known as: ["Meadow Chamomile","False Chamomile"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers and finely divided leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Anthemis |
| Botanical Name: | Anthemis secundiramea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; a more significant prune can be done in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning is generally sufficient for maintaining shape and encouraging new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect sunlight for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from indoors; avoid placing in hot, direct afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement seasonally to account for changing light angles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but should be protected from frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for propagating Anthemis secundiramea.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop within 3–4 weeks; the plant can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity to prevent cuttings from drying out; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves; cut back overgrown stems to the desired length.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Pruning also helps promote better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot, typically 2–3 inches wider in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any dead or crowded roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repotting helps refresh the soil and provides more space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; allow to adjust before fertilizing.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, only providing enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can slow growth and make the plant more susceptible to diseases.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 85°F (29°C) can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnthemis secundiramea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAnthemis secundiramea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAnthemis secundiramea is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anthemis secundiramea toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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