An apple scented low growing perennial, the flowers, though not quite as sweet, are used medicinally in much the same way as German chamomile. 9x9cm pot (8cm depth)
Description
- Aromatic herb
- Relaxing and sedative properties
- Low growing ground cover
- Easy to grow
Chamomile is commonly known by different words all over the world and has been used since 500BC. It came into widespread use during the medieval ages and was extensively prescribed by doctors during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It is still very popular today and an easy medicinal plant to grow.
Plant Care
- Height: 30-60cm
- Type: Hardy
- Aspect: Sun
- Soil: Any/alkaline
- Flower colour: White petals with orange centre
- Flowering period: June - September
An easy perennial which can be successfully either in the ground or in pots. In a sunny spot (South facing) the fragrance of the chamomile will be enhanced and more flowers will be produced. It gradually creeps to form a mat of low growing leaves year-round and can be split to provide plantlets for other areas. If you don't use the flowers for tea, the seed can be saved once ripe and sown the following year.
Usage
The warm sweet flowers of chamomile are relaxing and calming to the mind and body and tradition sees its use for both emotional irritability and skin irritation.
The essential oil is distilled from the flowers are added to a variety of skin preparations like soaps, creams and balms.
Aromatherapists use it in blends to for the skin and to aid relaxation.
A herbal infusion of the fresh or dried flowers is traditionally taken to unwind, aid sleep and is carminative to the digestion.