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 an 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Love-in-a-mist is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Love-in-a-mist after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
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 a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Love-in-a-mist with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Love-in-a-mist
Plant Sale lists Love-in-a-mist as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Love-in-a-mist seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.