Moluccella laevis
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 Moluccella laevis
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| Moluccella laevis L. |
Moluccella laevis (Bells-of-Ireland, Bells of Ireland, Molucca balmis, Shellflower, Shell flower) is a summer flowering annual, native to Turkey, Syria and the Caucasus, grown for its flower's spikes.
The tiny white flowers are surrounded by apple green calyces which are persisent. The plants rounded leaves are pale green.
Fast growing, Molucella laevis will reach 1 metre and spread to 30cm and has an erect, branching habit. [1]
A member of the mint family, the blooming stems can be cut and used in fresh or dried flower arrangements. The domestic plant is self seeding, prefers full sun and regular water and are unlikely to do well in hot, humid climates.
[edit] External links
- Germplasm Resources Information Network: Moluccella laevis
- Wisconsin Master Gardener Features: Bells of Ireland
[edit] References
- ^ Botanicas, Annuals and Perennials, Random House, Sydney, 2005
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