Bells of Ireland (Molucella Laevis) 50 seeds (#1742)

Bells of Ireland is most noted for producing a mid-summer to fall bloom of showy flower spikes featuring fragrant but tiny white flowers of little ornamental significance encased by large, showy, cup-shaped, green calyces.
Calyces are densely packed along each flower spike from top nearly to base. Bloom occurs in mid-summer, with the calyces remaining attractive to late summer before turning beige. Calyces turn somewhat papery as seed begins to form.
This mint family annual typically grows to 60 cm tall on branching square stems clad with ovate, crenate, light green leaves. Tiny stem thorns are sharp to the touch.
This is an excellent plant for fresh cut or dried flower arrangements. For dried flowers, it is best to cut flower stems prior to seed ripening and hang the stems in bunches in dry places with good air circulation.
Bells of Ireland (bell-shaped calyces) is native from the eastern Mediterranean to India, but not Ireland. The Ireland part of the common name is in probable reference to the green color of the calyces.
Cool weather annual that is easily grown in loose, moderately fertile, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates some light shade. Tolerates poor soils as long as drainage is sharp.
Plants perform best in cool summer climates. Apply fertilizer for larger spikes.
Plants may sprawl if not promptly staked. Plants may self-seed in the garden unless stems are cut prior to seed formation.
This is an excellent plant for fresh cut or dried flower arrangements. For dried flowers, it is best to cut flower stems prior to seed ripening and hang the stems in bunches in dry places with good air circulation.
Approximately 50 seeds in 0.5g packet.

Genus - Molucella
Species - Laevis
Common name - Bells of Ireland
Pre-Treatment - Not-required, but recommended
Hardiness zones - 2 - 11
Height - 0,50 - 0,60 m
Spread - 0,40 m
Plant type - Annual flower
Exposure - Full Sun
Growth rate - Fast
Soil PH - Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil type - Loose, moderately fertile
Water requirements - Average water needs. Water regularly, no overwatering
Landscape uses - Decorative annual plant for mix gardens and borders. This is an excellent plant for fresh cut or dried flower arrangements.
Bloom season - July - September
Leaf / Flower color - Green / Green with white centers

GERMINATION INSTRUCTIONS
Seed can be sown in the garden a few weeks before the last spring frost date. In warm winter areas, seed may be sown in fall.
***Sowing indoors:
Prechill (cold/moist stratify for 5 days at +2-+4C).
Sow indoors about 8-10 weeks before last spring frost date on the surface. Keep warm and in light position.