Scentless Chamomile

Description

Scentless chamomile was introduced to North America from Europe and is now found in all Canadian provinces. The large white flowers are similar to oxeye daisy, but the finely divided, scentless leaves help identify this species. Scentless chamomile is an annual to weak perennial forb with an extensive fibrous root system.

Type

Annual or weak perennial

Habitat & Impacts

This species grows in a range of habitats but prefers disturbed sites, such as landings, dumps, transportation corridors, and gravel pits.

Method of Spread

Scentless chamomile reproduces by seed. Up to one million seeds may be produced by a single plant

Location

Scentless Chamomile is scattered throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast with limited distribution in the South Cariboo.

Mechanical

Hand pulling can be an effective management practice for new infestations. The abundant seed production of this plant requires that infestation sites be re-examined annually to catch any germinant from the seed bank. Scentless chamomile does not compete well with other tall vegetation, so maintaining a healthy vegetation community or seeding disturbed sites can minimize infestation.

Chemical

Metsulfuron-methyl, Picloram, and Clopyralid have shown to be effective.

Biological

Three biocontrol agents have been released in Northeastern British Columbia, but the use of these agents needs to be further investigated.

CCCIPC Priority & Treatment Strategy

Priority 2 (containment) in the South Cariboo & Nazko, Priority 3 (established) all other regions.

Local Level

Hand pulling, encouraging competing vegetation establishment.

Landscape Level

Evaluation of biocontrol agent effectiveness, chemical control where high values are threatened.