What is Chamomile (Camomile)?

Chamomile, Latin name Chamaemelum nobile, is a perennial, evergreen herb. It is only similar to a grass in that it can be used as ground cover, and it does look much the same as a grass lawn. However, in most other respects, chamomile is very different from grass:

  • Chamomile has a delightful scent which has been described as “rich”, “sweet”, “fruity” and “apple-like”. It has a classic old world fragrance which is released by walking on the plants and is especially strong after rain.
  • Our low growing chamomile does not need mowing which is ideal for people with small gardens who do not want to buy a lawn mower!
  • Unlike grass, chamomile stays green in dry summers.

 

We grow two varieties of chamomile:

  • 'Treneague' (Chamaemelum nobile 'Treneague') which never flowers and has a wonderful sweet fragrance. As there are no flowers and therefore no pollen, for hayfever sufferers, a 'Treneague' lawn could take the sneezing out of summer!
  • Dwarf (Chamaemelum nobile dwarf) is a darker green than Treneague and releases an amazing, earthy, herbal aroma when trodden on. We find it ideal for growing as a lawn, around plants, such as roses (Camomile and roses can be planted together to benefit both plants.  Camomile can help improve the health of roses by deterring pests like aphids and attracting beneficial insects, while also having anti-fungal properties that can help protect against diseases).  Dwarf camomile also works well around water features, on graves or for edging paths. Dwarf is a less fussy plant than Treneague and we tend to recommend Dwarf where conditions are less favourable for Treneague, for example, if the soil is slightly alkaline or there is some shade.  Dwarf is essentially non flowering however it might occasionally produce a pretty white daisy like flower at the end of the summer.
Chamomile path