Roman Chamomile - 0.1 Gram

Roman Chamomile is a low-growing, perennial herb known for its delicate, daisy-like flowers and sweet, apple-like scent. It’s often grown as a ground cover, in herb gardens, or between pavers for its soft texture and pleasant fragrance. Unlike its annual cousin German chamomile, Roman chamomile spreads by creeping stems and returns each year.

Height  10–30 cm

Spread  30–40 cm

Foliage  Finely divided, feathery, and bright green

Flowers  Small (2–3 cm), white petals with yellow centers, blooming in summer

Fragrance  Mildly sweet, apple-like scent from both foliage and flowers

Uses  Herbal teas, ground cover, aromatherapy, pollinator-friendly gardens

Habit  Low, mat-forming, and slightly trailing

It thrives in cottage gardens, pathways, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows, attracting bees and beneficial insects.

Growing Conditions

Sun  Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in full sun)

Soil  Light, sandy, well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils well

pH  Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)

Watering  Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil but tolerates short dry spells once established

Spacing  20–30 cm apart

Roman chamomile tolerates foot traffic lightly and works well as a living mulch or lawn alternative in low-traffic areas.

Sowing Instructions

When to sow

Indoors  6–8 weeks before the last frost

Outdoors  After last frost in spring or late summer for autumn growth

Seed depth  Surface sow – press seeds lightly into the soil without covering; they need light to germinate

Germination temperature  15–20°C

Germination time  10–14 days

Transplanting  When seedlings are 5–7 cm tall and risk of frost has passed

Spacing  20–30 cm apart to allow for spreading

Propagation alternatives  Can also be propagated by division or cuttings in spring or autumn

Common Pests & Problems

Roman chamomile is generally low-maintenance and pest-resistant, but here are some issues to watch for

Pests

Aphids  May cluster on stems or flower buds – rinse off or use neem oil

Thrips  Can cause silvery streaks or flower distortion – use insecticidal soap

Leaf miners  Create trails in leaves – remove affected foliage

Slugs and snails  May nibble young plants – use barriers or traps

Diseases

Powdery mildew  Appears in humid conditions – improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering

Root rot  From overwatering or poor drainage – plant in well-draining soil and water only when topsoil dries

Botrytis (grey mold)  Fungal disease in wet, crowded conditions – remove affected parts and increase spacing