Roman Chamomile seed packet
- botanical name: Chamaemelum Nobile
- perennial zones 5-8
- height 6-12″
- spacing 8-12″ apart, in rows 24″ apart
- full sun tolerant
- dry to average soil
- flower color white with yellow centers
- uses in garden: as a border, great in containers, cut or dried flowers, drought tolerant, ground cover, fragrant
- very fragrant, use in salads, on sandwiches
A relative to the more popular German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile nevertheless has a following of its own. It has a slightly different scent (though still like apple or pineapple), which some prefer, and is also used in teas and essential oils. Unlike German Chamomile, which is actually an entirely different species, Roman Chamomile is a perennial. Its tiny white flowers are lovely against the very soft, feathery foliage. Use it in flavored honey, teas, and desserts. Great as a bath infusion, and inside sleep pillows. Leaves and flowers are used for herbal tea and hair rinse.
Slow-growing ground cover spreads by creeping rhizomes. The small daisy-like flowers, as well as the leaves, have a fragrance like German Chamomile. Commonly used to make “herbal lawns” in combination with herbs such as Creeping Thyme. It works well as an ornamental ground cover, since it does not grow to be very tall, and in England it is often used between stones in a garden.
Roman Chamomile plants are also available. Purchase them here.
Sowing Instructions:
This seed requires light to germinate. Indoors – recommended planting method – tamp the seeds into the soil mix or just barely cover with soil. 7-10 days for germination. Transplant to garden in spring when the soil temp reaches at least 45 degrees. Space plants 8-12″ apart in rows that are 24″ apart.
Outdoors – direct seed shallowly, about 2-3 seeds per inch. Thin to clusters of 2 or 3 plants every 12″.
Harvest – gather leaves and flowers when in full bloom. Use fresh or dry in a place out of direct sunlight and with good ventilation. Stir periodically over several days until dry.
