Roman Chamomile, Heirloom

Roman Chamomile has a regal and rugged history that sets it apart from other medicinal herbs:

• The Fragrant Path: In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was the preferred choice for "Chamomile Lawns." Aristocrats would plant it in walkways because, as the poet Falstaff noted, "The more it is trodden on, the faster it grows."
• A Symbol of Resilience: It has long been a symbol of "energy in adversity" because of its ability to thrive even when stepped upon or brushed against.
• The Buckingham Palace Lawn: To this day, the most famous Chamomile lawn in the world resides at Buckingham Palace—a tradition maintained since the time of King Edward VII.

• Hardy Perennial: Unlike German Chamomile (which is an annual), Roman Chamomile returns year after year, forming a permanent, spreading groundcover.
• Low-Growing Habit: Reaches only 3 to 6 inches in height, making it perfect for filling gaps between paving stones, border edges, or even as a lawn alternative.
• Evergreen Interest: In many climates, the lacy, fern-like foliage stays green throughout the winter, providing year-round texture to the garden.
• Superior Essential Oil: Roman Chamomile is the variety most prized by aromatherapists for its high-quality essential oils, which are deeper and more "herbaceous" than the annual variety.

Roman Chamomile is slightly more bitter than German Chamomile, making it an excellent choice for medicinal tinctures and skin-soothing applications.

Roman Chamomile is a "multi-sensory" plant that belongs in every landscape:

1. The "Scented Path": Plant it in the crevices of a flagstone walkway. When you or your guests walk over it, the air will be filled with its relaxing aroma.
2. Soothing Face Wash: Infuse the flowers into warm water for a gentle, natural toner that reduces redness and calms sensitive skin.
3. Aromatic Lawns: For small, low-traffic areas, use Roman Chamomile as a drought-tolerant, no-mow lawn alternative that smells better than grass!
4. Companion Planting: Known to help neighbor plants (especially onions and cabbage) by deterring pests with its strong scent.

• Type: Perennial (Zones 4–9).
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade.
• Height: 3–6 inches.
• Growth Habit: Spreading via "runners" (creeping stems) to form a dense mat.
• Sowing Tip: Like all Chamomile, these seeds need light to germinate. Surface sow and press firmly into the soil, but do not cover.