Chamomile

German chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, is the most commonly grown variety for chamomile blossoms. The plant produces fragrant flowers all summer long. The small, white daisy-like flowers have a pleasant pineapple flavor. They also attract beneficial insects and are self-seeding. The dried flowers are steeped in hot water to make one of the world's most popular herbal teas.

How to grow

Type: Annual
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Slightly alkaline preferred
Water: Low water
Size: 1–2' tall, 12–14" wide

When to plant/propagate

From seed: Preferred; plant in early spring when soil temperature is above 55 deg. Plant is self-seeding
Transplants: Transplant when plants are less than 1–2" in height

Harvesting

Harvest flowers when near full bloom. May be used fresh or dried
Preserving and drying herbs

Indoors: Can be grown indoors with 5–6 hours/day of bright light from a sunny window or 12–16 hours of supplemental light provided by cool white fluorescent or LED lamps

More links

Grow Herbs!, UCCE Master Gardeners of Sacramento County
Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, University of Wisconsin-Madison Master Gardener Program