
Imagine stepping out into your garden and sinking your toes into a soft, fragrant carpet of chamomile instead of conventional grass. Welcome to the world of chamomile lawns—an elegant, eco-friendly, and aromatic alternative that has been capturing gardeners’ imaginations for centuries. Let’s explore the history of chamomile lawns, their environmental benefits, and whether they might be a good fit for your garden.
A Brief History of Chamomile Lawns
Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), sometimes referred to as Roman chamomile, has been cherished for its medicinal, aromatic, and culinary qualities for thousands of years. The tradition of chamomile lawns traces back to medieval Europe, where it was first cultivated in monastery gardens. The soft, feathery leaves were often chosen for lawns in areas where nobles or clergy wanted a lush yet durable ground cover.
One of the most famous historical examples is Queen Elizabeth I’s lawn at her palace in Greenwich. She was said to love walking on her chamomile lawn, which not only felt pleasant underfoot but also released a calming, apple-like fragrance with every step.
Over time, chamomile became more than just a medicinal herb or a pretty flower—its versatility allowed it to transition from herb gardens to garden design, symbolizing luxury and sophistication. Today, it’s making a comeback in eco-conscious gardening circles as an alternative to thirsty, maintenance-heavy grass lawns.

The Eco-Friendly Appeal of Chamomile Lawns
Chamomile lawns have gained traction in modern gardens not just for their beauty, but also for their environmental benefits. Let’s take a look at why they’re an eco-friendly superstar:
1. Low Water Requirements
One of the biggest ecological benefits of a chamomile lawn is its lower water demand compared to traditional grass lawns. Chamomile is drought-resistant, requiring far less water to thrive. This makes it ideal for areas where water conservation is essential, such as dry or arid regions.
2. No Need for Mowing
Since chamomile plants are low-growing and spread out horizontally, they don’t need to be mowed regularly. This cuts down on the carbon emissions generated by gas-powered lawnmowers and reduces time spent on lawn care.
3. Natural Pest Repellent
Chamomile contains natural oils that deter certain garden pests. Planting a chamomile lawn can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, helping to maintain a healthier ecosystem in your garden.
4. Beneficial to Pollinators
Chamomile is an attractive plant for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Although mowing is limited, when left to bloom, your lawn can act as a mini-haven for beneficial insects, contributing to biodiversity.
5. No Fertilizers Required
Chamomile is fairly self-sufficient and can grow in poor soils where grass would struggle. This means fewer chemical fertilizers are needed, lowering the risk of water pollution from fertilizer runoff.
Pros of Chamomile Lawns
Chamomile lawns come with a number of appealing benefits beyond their eco-friendliness:
1. Fragrance
One of the most unique features of a chamomile lawn is its delightful scent. Every step you take releases a fresh, calming fragrance akin to apples or sweet herbs. Imagine the sensory experience of relaxing in your garden while breathing in the soothing aroma!
2. Soft and Cushiony
Chamomile lawns are incredibly soft to walk on, creating a comfortable surface for bare feet. This makes it an ideal option for families who want a pleasant play area for kids or pets.
3. Aesthetic Appeal
The delicate, feathery leaves and small white flowers (if allowed to bloom) create a whimsical and beautiful landscape. It’s perfect for cottage gardens, meditation spaces, or anyone who appreciates a more naturalistic garden style.
4. Low Maintenance
Once established, chamomile requires minimal upkeep. It doesn’t need frequent mowing, watering, or fertilizing, saving time and resources.
5. Resilience in Traffic Areas
Certain varieties of chamomile, especially non-flowering “Treneague,” are tough and can withstand light foot traffic without getting trampled. This makes chamomile lawns functional as well as beautiful.
Cons of Chamomile Lawns
While chamomile lawns have their perks, they aren’t perfect for everyone. Here are some potential downsides to consider:
1. Not Ideal for Heavy Traffic
Chamomile lawns can handle light foot traffic but may struggle in areas where there’s heavy use. If you frequently host garden parties or have kids and dogs running around, a chamomile lawn may not hold up as well as traditional grass.
2. Establishment Time
Chamomile lawns take time to establish properly. Seed-grown lawns can take months to form a dense mat, and it’s essential to weed and water them regularly during the early stages. For quicker results, some opt for chamomile turf (pre-grown mats), but it can be more expensive.
3. Not for All Climates
Chamomile prefers temperate climates and may struggle in extreme heat or cold. In areas with very hot summers, it might require additional watering to prevent the plants from wilting. Conversely, harsh winters can cause it to die back, leaving patchy spots.
4. Limited Flowering
If you’re hoping for a lawn full of chamomile’s iconic white flowers, you might be disappointed. Non-flowering varieties like ‘Treneague’ are often recommended for lawns since they’re more resilient to foot traffic, but they don’t bloom. If you allow flowering chamomile to bloom, frequent mowing will be required.
5. Initial Cost
While maintaining a chamomile lawn is cost-effective in the long run, the initial expense of purchasing plants or turf can be higher compared to traditional grass seed.
How to Start a Chamomile Lawn
If you’ve decided that a chamomile lawn is right for your garden, here’s a simple guide to getting started:
- Choose the Right Variety: For lawns, go for non-flowering varieties like ‘Treneague,’ which stays low and dense, or a flowering option like Roman chamomile if you’re okay with occasional blooms.
- Prepare the Soil: Chamomile likes well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH that’s slightly acidic to neutral. Ensure that your lawn area is free from weeds and rocks before planting.
- Plant Your Chamomile: You can either grow chamomile from seed (which takes longer) or lay down chamomile turf. Turf gives you instant results but is more expensive.
- Watering and Care: Water your chamomile lawn lightly but regularly until it’s well-established. Once it takes root, chamomile is drought-resistant and only needs water during prolonged dry spells.
- Mow Occasionally: If you’ve chosen a flowering variety, you’ll need to mow it occasionally to prevent blooms. If you’re growing non-flowering chamomile, you can let it spread without much interference.
The Summary
A chamomile lawn is a wonderful blend of beauty, fragrance, and eco-friendliness. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance alternative to grass, want to create a soothing sensory experience, or simply want to do your bit for the environment, this fragrant green carpet may be just what your garden needs.
While it’s not ideal for every setting, for the right garden, a chamomile lawn is an enchanting and practical option. With roots in medieval history and a growing modern fan base, it’s an old-world charm that fits perfectly into today’s sustainable gardening practices. So, take a stroll (barefoot, of course) into the world of chamomile lawns!
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