Organic 'Blue Delft' Nigella

Nigella 'Blue Delft' (Nigella papillosa), offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol

Nigella 'Bleu de Delft' is an elegant and poetic variety, named in homage to the famous blue of Delftware pottery in the Netherlands. It produces magnificent, delicate blue-grey flowers with mauve centers . Highly decorative, it adds a soft and refined touch to flowerbeds and naturalistic gardens alike.

After flowering, the plant produces unique and sculptural seed pods , just as attractive as the flowers. These can be used fresh or dried, making 'Delft Blue' an excellent plant with dual appeal , both for bouquets and as a garden ornament. Hardy and easy to grow, it tolerates spring frosts well and sometimes self-seeds lightly.

Type: Annual flower
Plant habit: Upright, delicate
Plant height: Approximately 40 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet: 50 seeds
Maturity: Approximately 70 days
Family: Ranunculaceae
Colour: Blue-grey with mauve centers
Uses: Cut flowers, dried flowers, flower beds
Companion plants: Cosmos, scabious, cornflower, poppy, fine grasses
Incompatible plants: No notable incompatibilities

Farming method

Nigella 'Bleu de Delft' is sown in spring , either directly outdoors or started indoors and then transplanted. It tolerates light frost , allowing for early sowing. Plant in full sun to partial shade , in well-drained soil , even moderately fertile soil.

To prolong flowering and extend the harvest of flowers and pods, sow seeds successively every 2 to 4 weeks . Sow shallowly, cover lightly, and maintain gentle moisture until germination. Once established, the plant requires very little maintenance.

Uses and benefits

Nigella 'Bleu de Delft' is ideal for creating delicate bouquets or dried arrangements thanks to its graphic seed pods. In the garden, it brings a light and sophisticated presence , attracting pollinators while visually structuring flowerbeds.

Growing 'Delft Blue' means inviting into the garden a plant that is artistic, easy and inspiring , combining floral beauty and decorative interest until the end of the season.