Nigella damascena makes a nice bulb cover or filler in the garden. It's also wonderful for cutting. The long-lasting blooms gradually deepen in color before the petals finally drop off cleanly. They are followed by decorative seed pods.
height 18"
Nigella Seeds
Nigella is a self-sowing annual that blooms in June and July. It's very easy to grow by direct sowing. Some species have edible seeds.
Sowing Nigella Seeds
Sow nigella seeds outdoors in early spring or fall. Sow on the surface or barely cover the seeds with soil. Thin to 6" apart. Full sun.
The pure blue color goes with everything, and the ornamental seed pods can be used in dried flower arrangements. The fragrant, black seeds are edible. I think they smell like spicy grapes. Also known as Love-in-a-Mist.
height 18"
Nigella hispanica 'Curiosity' has finely cut, blue-green foliage topped with violet-blue flowers with maroon centers. These are followed by ornamental seed pods that are great for dried flower arrangements. It's a terrific cut flower.
Nigella hispanica blooms a little later than Nigella damascena. Also known as Spanish Love-in-a-Mist and Nigella papillosa. Self sows.
height 24"
Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll Mix'
(Love-in-a-Mist)
500 seeds $3.25
Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll Blue'
(Love-in-a-Mist)
880 seeds $3.25
Nigella hispanica 'Curiosity'
(Spanish Love-in-a-Mist)
500 seeds $3.25
Nigella sativa has pale blue flowers followed by pods full of edible seeds. Modern research has confirmed their health benefits.
In India, the seeds of Nigella sativa are used as an ingredient in dahl. In Russia, they are added to rye bread. The flavor is similar to nutmeg or fennel. The seeds can also be ground and used as a pepper substitute. Deer resistant.
height 18"
Nigella sativa
(Black Cumin)
230 seeds $3.25