Contents
Description
Nigella Hispanica, also known as Spanish or Black Cumin, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The plant has a branched stem that can grow up to 60 cm in height and produces delicate, blue or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The seeds of the plant are small, black, and have a distinctive, nutty flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Nigella |
Appearance
Nigella Hispanica has a unique appearance with its delicate blue or white flowers and small, black seeds. The plant has a branched stem that can grow up to 60 cm tall and produces feathery, green leaves. The flowers of the plant bloom in the summer and have delicate petals that surround a small, central disc. The seeds of the plant are small, black, and have a distinctive, nutty flavor.
Care Guide
To care for Nigella Hispanica, it is important to provide the plant with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to ensure that it is grown in the appropriate hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to water the plant regularly, but not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Nigella Hispanica is hardy in zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nigella Hispanica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can sometimes be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Nigella Hispanica is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas. It is also widely cultivated as a garden plant in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nigella Hispanica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Nigella Hispanica can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: Is Nigella Hispanica a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Nigella Hispanica is an annual plant that dies off at the end of the growing season.
Q: Can the seeds of Nigella Hispanica be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the seeds of Nigella Hispanica are commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines to add flavor to dishes.
Q: Does Nigella Hispanica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Nigella Hispanica produces flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
– Nigella Sativa- Nigella Damascena- Nigella Arvensis- Nigella Orientalis
References
– “Nigella Hispanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 29, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h820.- “Nigella Hispanica.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed June 29, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:711187-1.
