How to Grow Chamomile in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
German chamomile self-seeds prolifically and is the usual one for tea. Harvest the flowers when the petals start to droop back. It makes a good companion near brassicas and other vegetables.
What it looks like as it grows
When to plant chamomile in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best chamomile varieties for NZ
- German Chamomile, Annual type grown for its daisy flowers for tea, self-seeds readily. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
- Roman Chamomile, Low perennial form, also used for a fragrant lawn or path edging. (Egmont Seeds, garden centres)
How to grow chamomile
- Space plants about 20cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.2cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 60 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Companion planting
Grow chamomile near: Brassicas, Onion, Lettuce.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
🌱 Plant Chamomile in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Chamomile plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant chamomile in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy chamomile seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds, garden centres.