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Herb
Chamomile

Chamomiles in Bath

Matricaria chamomilla

A hardy annual herb grown for its small daisy-like flowers, usually sown in spring in the UK. It grows best in a sunny, well-drained spot and flowers well if picked regularly.

Height45cm
SunlightFull Sun
WaterModerate Water

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Chamomile

Planting Calendar

Seed DirectLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
HarvestNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
MaintenanceNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
ObservationLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

  1. Sow Seeds

    2 Mar – 27 Apr
    every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds thinly on the surface of fine compost around 2nd March - 27th April. Press them in lightly or cover with only a dusting of compost, then keep the surface just moist until they germinate.

  2. Thin Seedlings

    13 Apr – 27 Apr

    When seedlings are large enough to handle from 13th April to 27th April, thin them so the strongest plants have room to grow. Keep the compost lightly moist and avoid disturbing the roots more than needed.

  3. Water Sparingly

    30 Mar – 18 Feb

    From 30th March to 18th February, water only enough to stop the plants drying out while they establish. Once rooted, chamomile prefers the soil to dry a little between waterings, especially in containers.

  4. Harvest Flowers

    13 Jun – 20 Nov
    every week

    Pick the flower heads from 13th June to 20th November when they are fully open and the centres are still fresh. Harvest every few days to keep the plants flowering, then dry the flowers quickly in a warm, airy place.

Companion Plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Chamomile.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested Varieties

Popular varieties of Chamomile to consider

German Chamomile

The standard annual chamomile grown for tea and drying, with small scented flowers and a loose habit.

Bodegold

A named German chamomile selection grown for reliable flowering and good drying quality.

Also in nearby towns

See how Chamomile timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.