Nigella damascena
Origin: Mediterranean
Improvement status: Cultivar
Seeds per packet: ~90
Germination tested 11/2023: 97%
Life cycle: Annual
We love "love-in-a-mist", a beautiful, ethereal flower followed by a balloon-like seed-pod full of tasty edible seeds. We also sell a multicolor mix (with whites and pinks) but this 'Persian Blue' variety contains a striking mix of different shades of blue. Pollinators love this plant, and the seeds can be used in a range of dishes, the same way you would use standard nigella seeds (Nigella sativa, or black seed, or kalonji), such as crushed on bread, or added to cheese (typical of Armenian string cheese). Our seeds for this variety come from Aaron Parker at Edgewood Nursery in Maine.
GROWING TIPS: Direct seed 1/4 inch deep 2-3 weeks before last frost, or transplant healthy plant starts after last frost. We recommend direct seeding, as Nigella can be a bit fussy when transplanted.
