Photo: Oceancetaceen - Alice Chodura, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Roman chamomile: when and how to prune
Chamaemelum nobile
Roman chamomile is best pruned in April and August.
| Pruning months | April and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Roman chamomile: when to prune it?
Cut the plant back after flowering, in August. In April, remove any winter damage.
Roman chamomile: how to prune it?
- After flowering, clip off the spent stems and flower heads with shears or a hedge trimmer, just above the mat of leaves.
- Mow a chamomile lawn a few times each summer with the mower on its highest setting.
- In April, remove brown, dead patches so the new shoots get light.
- Cut back runners that are too long if the mat creeps out of its place.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Roman chamomile flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: Do not cut into the bare, woody base of old patches: it is slow to regrow from there.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Roman chamomile · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.