Roman Chamomile

Roman Chamomile — variety description

Roman Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is an annual herb of the Daisy family (Asteraceae). Roman chamomile has small, daisy-like flowers that give off a sweet, fruity scent, while the foliage grows in a dense mat.

Of the two most common types of chamomile, the Roman variety has a stronger and slightly more bitter flavour. Chamomile essential oil usually contains the Roman variety.

When distilled, Roman chamomile oil can be used topically to reduce swelling, infection or inflammation.

Thanks to its apple scent when crushed, this plant often serves as ground cover or a lawn substitute.

Chamomile is the most popular medicinal herb for tea: it soothes, relieves inflammation and is a delicate ornament for the garden.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 90%
• Seeds per packet: 1275–1725 pcs (0.2 g)
• Seed origin: Netherlands
• Sowing: March – May; direct
• Flowering: June – August
• Harvest: May – July
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Roman Chamomile

Roman Chamomile seeds are sown in March – May. The plants flower in June – August. The crop is harvested from May to July. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Roman Chamomile

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: on the surface
• Spacing: 20 cm
• Germination: 7–14 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Work the soil to a depth of 2 cm, then sow directly in spring. Because Roman chamomile seeds need light to germinate, sow them just below the surface. This plant prefers rich, well-drained soil and full sun or light shade. Keep the soil lightly moist and weed-free until emergence, which should occur within 7-10 days. Thin the seedlings to 10 cm for ground cover or lawn, and 20-30 cm for the garden.

The seeds germinate in light: scatter them and just press them in. Sow in autumn or early spring.

Harvest and use

Pick the flower heads at full bloom and dry them in the shade.

Frequently asked questions

When should Roman Chamomile be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March – May. Sowing method: direct.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 1275–1725 seeds, pack size 0.2 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 90%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.

How do you dry chamomile?

Pick fully open flower heads in dry weather and spread them in a thin layer in a shaded, airy place.