Pineapple Weed

Chamomile

Zone 9a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Pineapple Weed

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Aromatic and honeyed from the first brush of foliage, Pineapple Weed (Chamomile) fills the garden with a bright, pineapple-like p…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 6th
Last Frost	Mar 6th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 6th
Harvest Begins	May 5th
Harvest Ends	Nov 26th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Lemon Sweet Dan Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Matricaria discoidea (pineapple weed), and how can I treat it?

The most frequent issues are fungal leaf spots and damping-off when seedlings are kept too wet and crowded. Water at the soil line, improve airflow by thinning to about 6–10 in (15–25 cm) apart, and remove any spotted leaves; if conditions stay humid, apply a labeled fungicide for ornamental Asteraceae and repeat as directed. For damping-off, avoid staying constantly wet and use fresh, well-draining seed-starting mix.

How often should I water pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) during active growth?

During the main growth phase, keep the top 1 in (2.5 cm) of soil lightly moist, then allow it to dry slightly before watering again—typically about 1–2 times per week depending on heat. In full sun, check more often: if the surface crusts or plants wilt during the day, water deeply until the root zone is evenly moist, then let the surface dry between waterings. Avoid soggy beds, which strongly increases the chance of fungal leaf problems.

How do I know when Matricaria discoidea is ready to harvest (or cut back)?

Matricaria discoidea is typically ready around 60 days after sowing, when plants have formed sturdy foliage and are in active flowering. Harvest/cut back when flower heads are fully developed but before extensive seed drop—look for open, mature disk flowers and firm stems that can be cut without flopping. If you’re growing it for continued regrowth, cut in the morning once flowers are at their best and stop harvesting once heavy seed dispersal begins.

Aromatic and honeyed from the first brush of foliage, Pineapple Weed (Chamomile) fills the garden with a bright, pineapple-like perfume that lingers on warm breezes. At maturity, its dainty, button-like blossoms open in airy clusters, offering a delicate, floral character and a gently soothing, tea-ready aroma. Grow it for its fragrant, feathery presence and for the fragrant infusions and calming blends that showcase its distinctive, sunny scent.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For the best pineapple scent, grow in full sun and avoid over-fertilizing; keep plants lightly moist until established.