Nigella 'Love-in-a-Mist' organic
identification
description
Nigella 'Love in the Mist' (Nigella damascena) – Offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
Nigella 'Love in the Mist' is a delicate and spectacular flower , producing beautiful blue petals that turn into large purple fruits at the end of the season. This ornamental and aromatic plant is not only a real centrepiece in the garden, but is also used for its edible seeds , which are milder than black cumin but have a slightly spicy and floral flavour. Very easy to grow, it adapts well to light, well-drained soils and produces abundant flowers throughout the summer, attracting bees and other pollinators.
Type : Annual flower, edible seeds
Plant habit : Upright, bushy
Spread : 20 to 25 cm
Plant height : 30 to 60 cm
Quantity per pack : 150 seeds
Maturity : About 80 to 90 days
Companion plants : Cosmos, poppy, marigold, lavender
Enemy plants : None, ideal for gardens in full sun
Cultivation method
Nigella 'Love in the Mist' prefers full sun and light, well-drained , slightly dry soil. Sow directly in the ground in spring , after the last frosts, on the surface or lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. A spacing of 20 to 25 cm between seedlings is recommended to allow the plant to develop properly. Moderate but regular watering is necessary to keep the soil slightly moist, but it tolerates dry spells well once established. The pods are harvested when they turn purple and slightly dry , after 80 to 90 days. You can then harvest the seeds once the pods have opened.
Use and benefits
Nigella seeds 'Love in the Mist' have a mild, slightly spicy and floral flavour, ideal for enhancing savoury dishes, salads, breads and pastries . They are also used in the preparation of spice blends or to enhance traditional Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes. In addition to their richness in essential fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins , nigella seeds are known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties .
The plant itself is also a real jewel in the garden, with its delicate blue flowers and finely cut leaves that bring texture and color to your beds and borders. An ornamental and useful plant at the same time!
