Chamomile ... Chamomile nobilis roman ... German chamomile

Chamomile

Synonymous with lawns in an English summer, chamomile is a wonderful little herb with pretty daisy like flowers.

There are many varieties of chamomile but the two that are most useful in the herb garden are German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile.

History of Chamomile

Records of chamomile date back to before the 17th century when chamomile lawns were a common feature in Britain and there are records to show that the Egyptians worshipped chamomile for its healing properties.

Growing Chamomile

If growing chamomile from seed, sow in late spring or autumn in a sunny spot. Cover with fine soil and keep watered until the plants have established themselves.

Try growing a fragrant chamomile lawn chamomile lawn and enjoy fragrant strolls across the garden.

Skincare and Cosmetic Uses of Chamomile

Chamomile is rich in oils which are extracted from the leaves and flowers and can be used in many cosmetic and skincare applications.

Medicinal Uses of the German Chamomile plant

The German chamomile variety of the herb is most often used for medicinal purposes as the oil extracted from the herb is stronger and less bitter.

Domestic Uses for Chamomile

The leaves and flowers of chamomile can be used in pot pourri and herb sachets

Harvesting and Preserving Chamomile

Collect the flowering heads of chamomile early in the morning after any dew has evaporated, dry them as quickly as possible in a low temperature to avoid decomposition.

Culinary Uses for Chamomile

The Spanish use the flowers of chamomile to flavour Sherry. In Spain it is called manzanilla.

• Add the chilled tea to fruit juices for a refreshing drink.

Varieties of Chamomile

Chamomile is related to the herb Yarrow.

There are many varieties of chamomile which grow in temperate climates. All of these varieties have daisy like flowers with conical yellow centres.

The Roman and German varieties of chamomile are the most common and most used in a herb garden.

Chamomile nobilis roman has a matted formation of leaf growth and is used most commonly for as a lawn. Hence the famous ‘Chamomile Lawn’

Chamomile nobilis roman is a perennial and has strong, low growing stems. This chamomile has a very strong aroma. The flowers bloom from summer

German Chamomile is most often grown for its medicinal purposes as its oil is stronger.

The flower of the German Chamomile has a hollow conical yellow centre.

German chamomile is an annual herb and grows wild in Europe. The stems of this variety grow upright and can reach a height of 1m.