Μουγιόχορτον, Χαμομήλι, Ματρικάρια η χαμομηλιά
Etymology of Matricaria chamomilla: The name of the genus "Matricaria" derives from Latin "matrix", meaning "womb", and the suffix "-aria", because it was used historically to treat disorders of the female reproductive system. The compound word "chamomilla" derives from the Ancient Greek neutral compound adjective "χαμαίμηλον" [hamemilon]. More specifically, it comes from the adverb "χαμαί" [hame], meaning "down on the ground" and the adjective "μήλο" [milo], meaning apple, hence it is the "down on the ground apple". It is so called because of the apple-like scent of the plant, a plant that grows slightly above the ground.
Two Matricaria species can be found in the wild Cypriot habitat.
Matricaria chamomilla grows up to an altitude of 150 metres. It primarily grows in valleys. Matricaria chamomilla does not grow in the Akamas and Karpasia peninsulas, or the northwestern coasts of Cyprus. Its flowering time is between December and May.
How to identify Matricaria chamomilla:
Looking so similar to the locally rich "Anthemis" family, at the first glance it's very difficult to be recognised. The key to its recognition is its extremely slender, pinnate leaves.
