CHAMOMILE, ROMAN
Chamaemelum nobile (Anthemis nobilis)
"I am sorry to say that Peter was not very well during the evening. His mother put him to bed and made some chamomile tea and she gave a dose of it to Peter, one tablespoon full to be taken at bedtime." (The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter)
Chamomile tea, made from the flowers, is very popular in Europe as an aid to digestion, especially after heavy meals. Its soothing and cleansing effect also makes the tea a beneficial skin wash. This variety is the traditional ground cover in English gardens and pathways, where it is cut like grass.
Roman Chamomile, a hardy evergreen perennial can be used as an ideal ground cover. It has inspired a proverb about energy in adversity, "like a chamomile bed, the more it is trodden the more it will spread. It reaches a height of approximately 4 inches with a spread of 18 inches with white flowers with yellow centers all summer. It is sweet smelling with finely divided foliage.
All the chamomiles prefer a well-drained soil and a sunny location, although they will adapt to most conditions. Prepare the site well, make sure the soil is light and free from stones and weeds. Gather the leaves in spring and early summer for best results. Use fresh or dry for use as tea.
PERENNIAL (ZONE 5-9)
Chamomile tea
1 heaped teaspoon Chamomile flowers (dried or fresh)
1 teaspoon honey slice of lemon (optional)
Put the chamomile flowers into a warm cup. Pour on boiling water. Cover and leave to infuse for 3-5 minutes. Strain and add the honey and lemon, if desired.
