Species Stinking Chamomile
white flowers with yellow center, green leaves and stems

Stinking Chamomile

Anthemis cotula

Also Known As - Mayweed
Stinking Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) is an annual plant that produces small yellow flowers with a strong and unpleasant odor. It is native to Europe, northern Africa and western Asia and is found in grassy meadows and wastelands. It spreads rapidly through self-seeding and can be an invasive species in some areas. The plant has several medicinal uses, including treating skin irritation and inflammation, and as a sedative. Stinking Chamomile is a attractive, yet smelly, addition to any garden.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

A Stinking Chamomile should be watered every 4-7 days once established, depending on temperature, humidity and sunlight. To keep the soil evenly moist, water from the base of the plant. Water until the soil is saturated and discard any excess water. Do not water again until the soil starts to dry. In hot, dry weather, the plant may need to be watered more frequently. In cooler and wetter conditions, it may need less. Water for too long, or too little, can cause root rot or drought stress.

sunlight

Stinking Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) grows best in full sun or light shade. It prefers at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Since sunlight can vary throughout the year, the plant should receive more sunlight during the longer summer days and a bit less during the winter. It should be grown in a well-drained, moderately fertile soil in a sheltered spot where it is not exposed to strong winds or frosts.

pruning

Stinking Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) should be pruned annually, in the early spring (March or April). Pruning should include the removal of any dead, dying, diseased or broken branches, in order to encourage new growth and improve the overall health of the plant. The plant should also be thinned slightly, removing any overcrowded or crowded branches that may be inhibiting the free-flow of air and light throughout. Be careful not to prune too heavily as this can reduce flowering, as well as damage the plant. After pruning, it is a good idea to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer and mulch around the base.