German Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Also known as: blue chamomile, wild chamomile, scented mayweed
Delicate and apple-sweet, chamomile flowers make a gentle, beloved tea.
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Chamomile has a long, gentle history as an herb of rest and quiet - a cup before bed is a ritual worth keeping.
German chamomile produces small daisy-like flowers with a warm, apple-like scent. The flowers are what you harvest - at peak they are bright white with a plump yellow center. They dry beautifully and make one of the most widely loved herbal teas in the world. Chamomile is an annual that self-seeds freely, so once you have it, you often have it for good.
The full guide
Fresh chamomile flowers are best used the same day. Spread them in a single layer on a clean surface and use within 24 hours, or dry immediately for longer storage.
Sun
full sun to partial shade
Water
low to moderate - drought-tolerant once established
Lifecycle
annual (self-seeding)
Days to maturity
60-65 days from seed to first bloom
Container suitable
Yes - grows well in pots
Harvest flowers when they are fully open and the petals are just starting to tilt backward. Pinch flowers daily during peak bloom - the more you harvest, the more the plant produces. Harvest in the morning after dew dries.
What to harvest
- flowers
Best season
- late spring
- early summer
Drying
Chamomile flowers dry quickly and well. Spread in a single layer on a clean screen or drying rack in a warm, dry spot out of direct sun. They are ready in 1-2 weeks when papery and the center no longer feels spongy. A food dehydrator at the lowest setting (95°F or below) works in 12-24 hours.
Storage
Store dried chamomile flowers in a sealed jar away from light. They keep for 12 months with good color and flavor. Check for any moisture before sealing - any dampness leads to mold.
Chamomile is a cornerstone herb for tea and tinctures. See the herbal-tea-and-infusions guide for simple steeping times and ratios, and the tincture guide for making a longer-lasting preparation.
- How to Dry Fresh Herbs
A straightforward method for preserving your herb harvest so nothing goes to waste.
For German Chamomile: Chamomile flowers dry on a screen rather than in bundles. Make sure flower centers are fully dry before storing.
beginner1-2 weeks (mostly hands-off) - Making an Herbal Tincture
A folk method for making a shelf-stable liquid herbal extract using alcohol.
For German Chamomile: Use dried chamomile flowers for tincture. Fresh flowers have too much moisture for an alcohol extraction.
intermediate4-6 weeks (mostly hands-off) - Herbal Tea and Infusions
How to make a simple, satisfying cup from fresh or dried herbs - and when to steep longer.
For German Chamomile: Chamomile tea is best made with dried flowers. Steep 1 tablespoon of dried flowers per cup for 5-10 minutes, covered.
beginner10-15 minutes - Herbal Shower Steamers
How to make simple baking-soda shower bombs that fill your shower with herb and essential oil fragrance.
For German Chamomile: Dried chamomile flowers pressed into the top of a shower steamer add a gentle visual element and a light, apple-sweet fragrance.
beginner30 minutes active + 24-48 hours drying
Flavor profile
Mild, apple-sweet, slightly floral and earthy
Uses
- herbal tea
- tinctures
- herbal baths
- infused honey
- flower garnish
Pairs well with
- lemon balm
- lavender
- honey
- vanilla
- peppermint
Traditional uses
- traditionally used to support a sense of calm and ease before rest
- long valued across European and Middle Eastern folk traditions as a gentle bedtime tea
- traditionally offered to children and adults alike as a soothing evening ritual
Always worth knowing before you cook with or use any herb regularly.
- If you are pregnant or nursing, talk with your provider before using herbs medicinally.
- Those with ragweed allergies may be sensitive to chamomile - start with a small amount.