German Giant

Chamomile

70d to harvest

Fragrant and honeyed from the first open bloom, German Giant chamomile fills the garden with a warm, apple-like perfume and a soft, floral sweetness. Expect generous, daisy-like flowers with crisp, feathery texture and a calming, aromatic presence that’s prized for steeping and soothing infusions. A standout for herb beds and borders, this vigorous selection rewards attentive growers with abundant harvest-ready heads over a steady season.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, 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)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile), and how can I prevent it?

German chamomile most often suffers from powdery mildew when plants are crowded and airflow is poor. Water at the base and space seedlings so leaves dry quickly after morning dew, then remove badly affected leaves early to slow spread. If mildew appears, spray with a labeled potassium bicarbonate or horticultural sulfur product and repeat as directed on the label.

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

During active growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for light, frequent watering so the top 1 inch stays lightly damp. Once established, water when the surface starts to dry, typically every few days in warm weather, since German chamomile prefers moisture without waterlogging.

How do I know when German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the flower centers are fully open and the yellow disk florets are at peak bloom, not when they are closed or past their prime. For best quality, pick on dry mornings and use immediately, or dry the flowers quickly in a well-ventilated area out of direct sun.