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Corn chamomile

Anthemis arvensis · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant corn chamomile: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous, finely cut and feathery
Flowering
May to September, white or pale yellow flowers
Adult size
20 to 60 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy, tolerates temperate climates
Origin
Mediterranean Basin and Western Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile

Care

Watering

Water moderately and let the soil dry between waterings. During the growing season, maintain light moisture but avoid excess. Once established, the plant tolerates dry periods well thanks to its developed root system.

Light and Exposure

Place the plant in full sun to optimize its growth and flowering. It also tolerates partial shade but produces fewer flowers. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight is recommended.

Soil

Choose well-drained soil that is slightly poor and gravelly. Soils that are too rich promote foliage at the expense of flowers. Avoid water accumulation which causes root rot.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pinch young plants to encourage branching. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period. At the end of the season, cut back the plant or allow it to reseed naturally if desired.

Fertilizer

Apply little fertilizer: a light application in spring is more than enough. Excess nitrogen promotes excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering. Prefer very moderate feeding or let the plant make do with the soil.

Diseases and Pests

Very resistant to common diseases. Powdery mildew can occur in case of excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest it in container cultivation.

Did you know?

False chamomile was traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing properties, although it is less well-known than true chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Its scientific name Anthemis comes from the Greek "anthos" (flower), reflecting its generous flower production. It was long considered a weed in cereal fields before being appreciated for its ornamental and ecological value as a honey plant.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.