Anthemis arvensis aka Field Chamomile

Anthemis arvensis is an annual in the daisy family, Asteraceae. Its common names include corn chamomile, mayweed, and field chamomile. Some sources also call it scentless chamomile. Its native range covers most of Europe, including Britain and Ireland. It extends south into North Africa and east into western Asia. In Britain, it grows on arable land and waste ground. It favours sites with lime-rich soil and disturbed ground.

Plants form a bushy clump and reach about 0.7–1 foot (0.2–0.3 metres) tall. The RHS also lists an upper height of 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). Its listed spread reaches 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). It reaches its mature size within one year. The leaves have fine divisions that give them a feathery look. Soft hairs cover their lower surfaces. Despite the common name scentless chamomile, the RHS describes the leaves as aromatic. The foliage is deciduous.

Flowerheads appear in summer and have a simple daisy form. Broad white ray florets surround a central disc of yellow florets. These pale and yellow heads stand above the finely cut leaves. The RHS suggests this species for a wildflower meadow. Plants For A Future also records its use as an ornamental. It can grow in cultivated beds as well as disturbed sites. Its annual habit makes seed the means of raising new plants.

Grow corn chamomile in full sun and soil that drains well. The RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It favours neutral to alkaline conditions rather than acid ground. The supplied moisture guidance spans dry to moist soil. Both exposed and sheltered sites can suit it. South-facing and west-facing positions meet its stated growing needs. The RHS gives a hardiness rating of H6. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 4–8. No pruning is needed, and pests and diseases seldom cause problems.

Plants For A Future flags this species as a possible weed. That matters when placing it near cultivated ground. The same source records no known food uses or hazards. This does not establish that it is safe to eat. It reports traditional use of the flowers and leaves for fever. That record describes a medicinal use, not proof of benefit or safety.