Sky-blue flowers nestled in a ruff of feathery foliage, followed by inflated horned seed pods loved by flower arrangers. Sow direct where it is to grow; it resents transplanting and self-seeds.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 20 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Love-in-a-mist
Botanically, Nigella damascena is a fast-growing annual in the Ranunculaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 20 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Blue, white and pink flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Love-in-a-mist
Love-in-a-mist suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Love-in-a-mist provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Love-in-a-mist performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Love-in-a-mist after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Love-in-a-mist in the garden
Love-in-a-mist earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, feeding bees and pollinators and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Love-in-a-mist with species that also favour happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Love-in-a-mist
Plant Sale lists Love-in-a-mist as seed. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Love-in-a-mist seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
