Kamilica
Matricaria chamomilla
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Description
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a hardy annual herb native to Europe and Western Asia, widely valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It features delicate, daisy-like flowers with white petals and a yellow center, growing on thin, branching stems. In regenerative agriculture, chamomile serves as a valuable ground cover and is known for attracting beneficial insects such as hoverflies and predatory wasps, which help control aphid populations. Its moderate root system aids in breaking up compacted soil, enhancing soil structure and health. Chamomile is an excellent companion plant for brassicas and onions, as it can deter pests such as cabbage moths. Historically, chamomile has been used in traditional medicine for its calming effects and as a digestive aid. In an agroecological context, it contributes to biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and can be part of a guild with plants like calendula and yarrow, which also attract beneficial insects. Chamomile plays a role in the herbaceous layer of a food forest, providing both ecological benefits and a valuable harvest.
Growing Details
Chamomile prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as well-rotted compost to improve fertility and drainage. Direct-seed chamomile in early spring, or start indoors and transplant after the last frost. Space plants 30 cm apart to allow for airflow and prevent disease. Mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid overwatering; chamomile is drought-tolerant once
Tags
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Matricaria chamomilla</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and Western Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions worldwide
language used: sr
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
middle
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Chamomile flowers are primarily used to make herbal tea, known for its calming effects. The flowers can also be used to flavor desserts and beverages. Fresh or dried flowers are steeped in hot water to make a soothing tea, often used to relieve stress and improve digestion. Harvest flowers in the morning when they are fully open, and dry them quickly to preserve essential oils.
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: Chamomile is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming properties. It is commonly used to treat digestive issues, anxiety, and skin conditions. Chamomile tea is a popular remedy for insomnia and stress. The flowers can be used in poultices for skin irritations and inflammations. Caution is advised for individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, and it should be used with care during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
health concerns: Chamomile may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
other uses: Chamomile can be used as a natural dye and in cosmetic preparations due to its soothing properties. It is also used in potpourri and as an ingredient in homemade cleaning products for its pleasant scent.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Matricaria chamomilla
common names: Nemaฤka kamilica; Divlja kamilica; Miriลกljavi
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe: Anthemideae
sub tribe:
genus: Matricaria
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 1 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Chamomile prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as well-rotted compost to improve fertility and drainage. Direct-seed chamomile in early spring, or start indoors and transplant after the last frost. Space plants 30 cm apart to allow for airflow and prevent disease. Mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid overwatering; chamomile is drought-tolerant once
Potential Disturbances: Chamomile is generally resistant to ecological pressures but can occasionally face challenges from aphids and powdery mildew. To manage aphids, introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings. For powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Companion planting with garlic or chives can be beneficial. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage pest outbreaks.
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