Chamomile
Common Names: Chamomile, Garden Chamomile, Scented Mayweed
Botanical names: Matricaria chamomilla, Chamaemelum nobile
Availability: June through September
Vase life: 5 to 10 days
Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: Yes
Description: A daisy-like flower with a yellow center surrounded by small white petals. Blossoms are at the end of fine, airy stems and feathery foliage.
Color: Most commonly white with bright yellow centers. Some cultivated varieties may lean creamy white, pale yellow, or soft green, especially in the button-like centers.
Botanical facts: Chamomile has a long history of use as an aromatic and herbal plant, especially in teas and botanical preparations.
Design notes: Chamomile is a wonderful filler flower and textural element in floral design. Its small daisy-like blooms, branching stems, and delicate foliage add softness, movement, and a relaxed garden feeling without adding visual weight. It works especially well in garden-style arrangements, hand-tied bouquets, wildflower designs, and casual centerpieces. Chamomile can soften stronger focal flowers, fill negative space, and create a natural transition between larger blooms and foliage. Its white petals and yellow centers also bring a fresh, cheerful quality to a design while blending easily with many color palettes.
Purchasing hints: Purchase flowers that appear fresh and bright with undamaged petals and turgid stems and leaves.
Conditioning: Remove all foliage that will be below the water line. Cut under stem ends with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Chamomile has a sweet apple-like fragrance.