Chamomile

History

Cultivated for at least 4,000 years across Egypt, Greece, and Rome, chamomile has been a garden staple and evening ritual companion since long before it had a Latin name.

Folklore

Called the 'plant's physician' in cottage gardens — old growers believed a chamomile plant nearby could revive an ailing neighbor in the bed.

Season

Blooms late spring through late summer.

Growing

Direct sow in full sun after last frost. Thrives in poor soil. Pinch flowers regularly — the more you harvest, the more it blooms.

Culinary use

Dried flower heads infuse into tea, syrups, and honey. A pinch of fresh flowers is beautiful in shortbread and simple citrus salads.

Flavor

Honey, green apple, straw, warm hay.

Gardening tip

Companion plant near cucumbers and brassicas — chamomile is said to sweeten the soil.

A small recipe

Warm chamomile milk with honey and a curl of lemon peel, sipped before bed.

A gentle note

Avoid if you have a known ragweed allergy.

Tea pairings

• Sacred Calm
• Moon Garden