Anthemis, Genus, spp., Multiple species,
- Genus
- Multiple species
Chamomiles
Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and south-western Asia
Overview
Anthemis is a genus of about 100 to 175 aromatic plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae), native to Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and south-western Asia. The genus takes in both annuals and short-lived perennials, generally 15-90 cm (6-36 in) tall, with finely divided, fern-like leaves that are often grey-green and release a chamomile-like scent when crushed. From late spring through summer the plants carry single daisy flowers 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 in) across, each with white or yellow ray florets around a raised yellow disc, held on slender stems above the foliage. Several species, including the golden marguerite (A. tinctoria), bloom heavily over many weeks and were once used to make a yellow dye. Most species grow on dry, sunny, well-drained ground and tolerate poor soil and drought, but the perennials are often short-lived and need dividing or replacing every few years. A few, such as stinking chamomile (A. cotula), are weeds of disturbed ground, and their foliage can irritate the skin of some people. The flowers draw bees, hoverflies, and butterflies.
Native Range
Anthemis is native to Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, North Africa, and western Asia, with many species centred on the eastern Mediterranean. Several species have naturalised as weeds in North America and elsewhere.Suggested Uses
Anthemis species are grown in sunny borders, gravel and cottage gardens, and wildflower plantings, and the silver-leaved kinds edge dry beds and paths. The long-stemmed daisies are cut for the vase. Their nectar and pollen draw a range of bees and other beneficial insects.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6" - 3'
Width/Spread1' - 3'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white or yellow with a yellow centreFoliage Description
green to grey-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Drought Tolerance
Drought tolerant when established
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plants grow in full sun on light, sharply drained soil at a pH of 6.0-7.5 and tolerate chalk and poor ground. Once established they withstand heat and drought, while damp, heavy, or shaded sites cause weak growth and rot. Perennial species are short-lived and are kept vigorous by division every two to three years. Cutting plants back after the first flush of bloom encourages fresh foliage and a second flowering. Little feeding is needed, as rich soil produces floppy stems.Pruning
Shearing the plants back by about half after the main flowering tidies them and brings a repeat display. Spent flower stems are removed through the season to prolong bloom. Perennials are cut to a low rosette in autumn or late winter.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons
