Calypso Chamomile

Chamomile

70d to harvest

Aromas of apple-sweet chamomile drift up as the delicate, daisy-like blooms open—fragrant, honeyed, and impossibly calming. Calypso Chamomile forms tidy, branching plants with fine, feathery foliage and abundant flowers that deliver a gentle, floral flavor with a crisp, airy texture. Grow it for soothing herbal infusions and for drying—its blossoms hold their character beautifully for later use in teas and calming blends.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Dec 10th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	65
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem most often affects Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile), and how do I treat it?

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) commonly suffers from powdery mildew in warm, humid conditions. Improve airflow by spacing plants and watering the soil (not the foliage), then spray an appropriate labeled fungicide for powdery mildew if infection is starting to spread. Remove the most heavily affected leaves early to slow further mildew buildup.

How often should I water Matricaria chamomilla during its main growing phase?

During the main growth phase, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for consistent moisture in the top few inches as plants establish. Water about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and soil, increasing frequency during hot spells and reducing it if the soil stays damp. Avoid soaking the crown because chamomile is prone to stress when roots sit in saturated soil.

How can I tell when Matricaria chamomilla is ready to harvest for best quality?

Harvest when the flower heads are fully open and the central disk is actively yellow, with the white ray petals positioned around the disk. For the best potency, pick in the morning after dew dries and before midday heat fades the bloom. If you wait until petals start to curl downward and brown, the heads are past peak for drying and tea use.