Roman Chamomile: A Fragrant, Spreading Perennial Herb

With its low mounds of feathery green leaves and cheerful daisy blooms, Roman chamomile is a delightful addition to any herb garden. This apple-scented plant has been valued since ancient times for its medicinal qualities and culinary uses. But is Roman chamomile actually a perennial?

The answer is yes – Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is considered a perennial in most climates Its spreading nature, aromatic qualities, and growth habits differentiate it from its close cousin, German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Roman Chamomile: A True Perennial Herb

Unlike German chamomile an annual Roman chamomile is able to survive through winter in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 11. It’s technically a short-lived perennial, meaning each plant will thrive for about 3 years on average before needing to be replaced.

Some key perennial traits of Roman chamomile include:

• Its creeping habit – Roman chamomile spreads via underground stems called stolons. This allows it to form mats up to 12 inches wide.

• Winter hardiness – The compact foliage and spreading growth help Roman chamomile endure colder weather. Mulching provides added protection in very cold areas.

• Persistent roots – Roman chamomile’s fibrous root system remains alive over winter and regrows the next spring.

• Self-seeding – As a perennial, Roman chamomile readily self-sows. The previous year’s seeds germinate to produce new plants.

So while German chamomile must be replanted annually as seeds, Roman chamomile persists year after year once established. Its perennial nature makes it very low maintenance in the herb garden.

Growing Roman Chamomile as a Perennial

Taking advantage of Roman chamomile’s perennial traits allows it to thrive with minimal care:

• Plant it once – Being a perennial, there’s no need to replant Roman chamomile every year. Sow it once and it will return on its own.

• Give it room to roam – Allow at least 12 inches diameter forRoman chamomile’s creeping habit. It can also grow between pavers or in the front of beds.

• Shear it as needed – Trim back overgrown patches in summer to keep growth tidy and encourage new blooms.

• Divide when crowded – Every 2-3 years, dig up overgrown clumps and replant divisions to rejuvenate.

• Protect it in winter – Add mulch in fall to insulate roots in cold climates. Potted plants need extra winter protection.

With the right growing conditions, Roman chamomile will reward gardeners for years to come as a carefree perennial!

Comparing Roman Chamomile to German Chamomile

Although they share a common name, Roman and German chamomile have some key differences. Knowing them helps distinguish their growth habits:

• Plant type – Roman chamomile is a perennial while German chamomile is an annual. German must be replanted from seeds annually.

• Height – German chamomile grows taller, reaching 1-2 feet high. Roman chamomile forms a low carpet only 3-6 inches tall.

• Flowers – Both have daisy-like blooms but German chamomile produces more prolifically. Roman chamomile yields smaller harvests.

• Scent – They share the signature apple aroma but Roman chamomile is considered to have a stronger, sweeter fragrance.

• Uses – German chamomile is more commonly used for tea while Roman chamomile is popular as a groundcover or walkway plant.

Growing Roman Chamomile

Getting Roman chamomile established is simple. Here are some tips:

• Plant – Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost or direct sow in spring. Space plants 8-12 inches apart.

• Sun – Full sun is required for best flowering. At least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Soil – Average garden soil is fine but richer soil yields more flowers. Water regularly.

• Harvest – Pick flowers as they open. Use fresh or dried in teas, baking, and potpourri.

• Prune – Shear plants halfway down periodically to encourage bushy, compact growth.

• Mulch – Insulate with 2-3 inches of mulch over winter in cold climates. Replace in spring.

With proper care, Roman chamomile will thrive for years as a carefree perennial!

Enjoying Roman Chamomile Year After Year

Some of the joys of growing Roman chamomile as a perennial include:

• Lovely white blooms from spring through summer

• A fragrant apple aroma when leaves or flowers are brushed

• The ability to harvest flowers for months of use in teas

• Soft, deep green foliage that fills in bare spots

• Never having to replant – it returns every spring

• Self-sowing new plants to expand or share

• Brightening paths, patios, and container gardens

So if you’re looking for a sturdy, carefree perennial herb, Roman chamomile is an ideal choice. Allow it to spread as a living carpet of green leaves and cheerful blooms. This apple-scented beauty needs little care yet delights for years to come. Discover the joys of growing Roman chamomile in your garden!