Scentless mayweed
Tripleurospermum inodorum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant scentless mayweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Temperate Eurasia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, undemanding
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, the plant tolerates dry periods well and needs only occasional watering. Avoid excess moisture, which can promote fungal diseases.
Light exposure
Plant scentless chamomile in full sun or partial shade. It flowers abundantly in sunlight and develops a more compact habit. In partial shade, it remains vigorous but may become slightly leggy.
Pruning and cutting
Regularly deadhead spent flowers to extend flowering and maintain a harmonious shape. Light pruning in spring removes dead stems and encourages bushier growth. You can cut stems for bouquets or infusions.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Moderately fertile plants produce more abundant flowering.
Soil
Scentless chamomile adapts to all soil types as long as they're well-drained. It tolerates poor and chalky soils. Overly rich and damp soil can reduce its vigor and longevity.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust, it may occasionally suffer from powdery mildew or root rot in very humid conditions. Improve air circulation and allow the soil surface to dry between waterings. Aphids are rare but may occasionally visit.
Did you know?
Despite its name, scentless chamomile doesn't live up to its appellation: it actually gives off a light, slightly aromatic scent, especially when you brush against its foliage. In Europe, it was long confused with common chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), and farmers long considered it a harmful weed in crops before recognizing its ornamental and nectar-producing value.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.