German Chamomile

Description

(Matricia recutita) German Chamomile is a delicate annual herb most famously used in the brewing of a relaxing herb tea, that is said to help aid digestion and insomnia, but is also routinely used in shampoos and other cosmetic products. Makes a good ornamental ground cover.

Chamomile is part of the aster family and has flowers with daisy like white petals and an eggy yellow centre. The plant grows to a height of between 10-40cm.

Chamomile is known as 'the physicians plant' as it is said revive any weak or poorly plants that it is planted next to. Can also help prevent ‘damping off’ when a solution of its leaves & flowers is misted over seedlings.

Care & Growing:

Prefers a sunny, well-drained site but copes with most soils except extremely wet. Grows well in a container.

The seeds are very fine so it is best to sow indoors or under cover first, in early spring. Sow the seeds on the surface of compost and firm down but do not cover with soil, as light aids in germination. Keep at 15-20°C and germination takes 10-14 days. Plant out when seedlings are large enough to handle & space 25-30cm between plants.

The flowers should be picked just as they fully open and can be used either fresh or dried. If the plant gets too big and sprawling, chop it back after flowering.

Seeds/Packet: (min. 50 Seeds)