Moluccella laevis
bells of Ireland
- approx 200 seeds
- £2.12 £2.49
- In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
- Seed Packets (only) £2.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: August
- Hardiness: tender annual
Long spikes of small, fragrant, white to pale purplish-pink flowers, which are surrounded by a pale green collar-like calyx, appear from late summer. The flowers of Moluccella laevis make great additions to fresh bouquets where they provide a perfect foil for showier colours, and if dried will add structure and interest to longer-lasting arrangements.
Bells of Ireland thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Keep plants evenly watered during dry spells and feed occasionally with a balanced fertiliser to support flowering. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage new blooms, or leave them to dry for use in arrangements.
The tall stems may need light staking to stay upright in windy spots. Once flowering ends, cut back to ground level; the dried seed heads can be collected for future sowing or left to self-seed naturally.
The tall stems may need light staking to stay upright in windy spots. Once flowering ends, cut back to ground level; the dried seed heads can be collected for future sowing or left to self-seed naturally.
Sow early under glass by sprinkling the seed on top of good seed compost and lightly cover. Maintain the temperature between 15-20°C and water when necessary. When large enough to handle, pot up the seedlings and grow on before hardening off. They can be planted out after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively sow in situ in late spring.
Sow: March to June
Flowering: August to October
