Chamomile

Chamomile is grown both as a garden herb and, in several countries, as a field-scale crop supplying dried flowers to the herbal tea and flavoring industries.

Because flower heads mature and open over an extended period, commercial harvest is typically repeated across several passes through the growing season.

Family

Asteraceae (daisy family)

Genus

Matricaria

Principal species

Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile); Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile) is a related, separately classified species

Growth habit

Low, branching annual herb with finely divided leaves and small daisy-like flower heads

German chamomile is native to Europe and western Asia, where it has long grown as a wild and cultivated plant valued for its flowers. It has since naturalized and been cultivated across many temperate regions worldwide.

Significant commercial production occurs in parts of Eastern Europe and other temperate regions supplying dried-flower and extract markets. Production statistics are compiled at national and regional levels.

Chamomile grows best in temperate climates with mild to cool conditions and tolerates a range of rainfall patterns, though excessive heat can shorten the flowering period.

Well-drained loams and sandy loams of moderate to low fertility are suitable; the crop generally tolerates poorer soils better than many other herb crops but performs poorly under waterlogging.

• Direct seeding into a fine, firm seedbed, since seeds are very small
• Even stand establishment important for uniform flowering and ease of harvest
• Weed control critical during early growth, as seedlings compete poorly with weeds
• Repeated harvest passes as flower heads mature over several weeks

Chamomile generally requires modest fertility; nitrogen supports vegetative growth and flower production, though excessive rates can favor leafy growth over flowering.

Consistent moisture during establishment and flowering supports even flower production, while established plants tolerate moderate dry spells reasonably well.

Sprinkler or drip irrigation is used depending on the scale and region of production, with scheduling based on local rainfall and evapotranspiration.

Powdery mildew can affect chamomile foliage under humid conditions, and damping-off can reduce seedling establishment in wet, poorly drained seedbeds. Aphids and thrips are common pests affecting foliage and flower heads.

Flower heads are harvested by hand or with specialized mechanical harvesters once fully open, typically over several passes through the season, then dried promptly to preserve color and aroma.

• Dried flower heads used to prepare herbal infusions and teas
• Extracts used as flavoring in food and beverage products
• Essential oil and extracts used in the cosmetics and fragrance industries
• Ornamental and pollinator-friendly garden use in some settings