Contents
Description
Matricaria is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, Asteraceae. This genus consists of annual or perennial herbs with fragrant foliage and white or yellow flowers. It is commonly known as chamomile, and its flowers are used to make tea and herbal remedies due to their soothing and calming properties. Matricaria is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens and farms worldwide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Matricaria |
Appearance
Matricaria plants have finely divided, feathery leaves that are aromatic when crushed. The flowers are daisy-like with white or yellow petals and a yellow center. They bloom from early summer to fall and are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, brown, cylindrical fruits that contain tiny seeds. The plants vary in size from a few inches to 3 feet tall, depending on the species and variety.
Care Guide
Matricaria plants are easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for their care:
Water: Chamomile plants prefer well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plants with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Chamomile plants grow best in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Add compost or organic matter to the soil before planting.
Sunlight: Chamomile plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Chamomile plants grow best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matricaria plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plants may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by keeping the plants dry and well-ventilated.
Habitat
Matricaria plants are native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and are widely cultivated in gardens and farms worldwide. They grow best in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. They are often found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Matricaria?
A: Matricaria flowers contain essential oils that have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. They are used to treat digestive disorders, anxiety, insomnia, and skin conditions.
Q: Can I grow Matricaria indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Matricaria indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Use a well-drained potting mix and water the plants regularly.
Q: How often should I harvest Matricaria flowers?
A: You can harvest Matricaria flowers when they are fully open and before they start to fade. Harvest them in the morning when the dew has dried. You can harvest the flowers every few days during the growing season.
Q: Can I use Matricaria flowers to make tea?
A: Yes, you can use Matricaria flowers to make tea. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Matricaria:
- Anthemis tinctoria
- Achillea millefolium
- Chrysanthemum parthenium
- Tanacetum vulgare
- Echinacea purpurea
References
- Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Srivastava JK, Shankar E, Gupta S. Mol Med Report. 2010 Nov 1;3(6):895-901. doi: 10.3892/mmr.2010.377.
- Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Srivastava JK, Shankar E, Gupta S. Mol Med Report. 2010 Nov 1;3(6):895-901. doi: 10.3892/mmr.2010.377.
- Matricaria recutita L., a therapeutic plant: Its cultivation, harvesting, processing, and applications. Singh O, Khanam Z, Misra N, Srivastava MK. Nat Prod Rad. 2011 Jan-Feb;10(1):70-5.
- The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Chevallier, Andrew. Dorling Kindersley Limited, 1996.
- Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Srivastava JK, Shankar E, Gupta S. Mol Med Report. 2010 Nov 1;3(6):895-901. doi: 10.3892/mmr.2010.377.
