Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile)

Fragrant Groundcover • Tea Herb • Pollinator Friendly

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a low-growing, aromatic herbaceous perennial prized for its soft, apple-scented foliage and charming daisy-like flowers. With creeping stems and finely textured bright green leaves, this versatile plant works beautifully as a living groundcover, between stepping stones, or along garden paths, releasing a gentle fragrance when brushed or walked upon.

In summer, Roman Chamomile produces small white flowers with sunny yellow centers, traditionally harvested for herbal teas, calming infusions, and medicinal preparations. The flowers can also be used as a natural yellow dye, adding historical and practical value to this time-honored herb.

Hardy, adaptable, and long-lived, Roman Chamomile is ideal for herb gardens, cottage gardens, and permaculture landscapes.

Plant Features

• Soft, apple-like fragrance from foliage and flowers
• Classic chamomile for herbal teas and infusions
• Excellent low-growing groundcover
• Supports pollinators
• Flowers can be used as a natural yellow dye
• Performs well between paving stones when trimmed

Growing & Care Guide

• Botanical Name: Chamaemelum nobile
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Height x Width: 3”–12” (in bloom) x approx. 1.5 ft
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–8
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Soil Preference: Well-draining soil

Pruning flower stems encourages a denser, mat-forming habit and makes Roman Chamomile ideal for walkable areas.

Culinary & Herbal Uses

Flavor Profile:

Mild, floral, and lightly sweet with classic apple-like chamomile notes.

Common Uses

• Herbal Teas: Fresh or dried flowers for calming, soothing infusions
• Sleep & Relaxation Blends: Traditional use for evening teas
• Herbal Remedies: Widely used in folk and traditional medicine
• Edible Garnish: Fresh flowers for teas and desserts
• Natural Dye: Flowers produce a soft yellow dye for textiles and crafts

Harvesting Tips

• Harvest flowers just as they fully open for best aroma and potency
• Dry flowers in a single layer out of direct sunlight
• Regular harvesting promotes continued blooming

Pairs Well With:

Roman Chamomile blends beautifully with other gentle herbs and bright flavors.

Ideal Pairings

• Herbs: Lemon balm, lavender, mint, fennel, anise hyssop
• Floral Herbs: Rose petals, calendula, elderflower
• Citrus: Lemon peel, orange peel
• Sweeteners: Honey, agave, stevia
• Teas: Green tea, white tea, mild black tea

Flavor Tip:

Use Roman Chamomile when you want a soft, soothing herbal base that complements rather than overpowers other ingredients.