Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll
Contents
Description
Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll, commonly known as Love-in-a-Mist or Devil-in-a-Bush, is an annual flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to North Africa, Europe, and Southwest Asia but can be grown in other parts of the world as well. This plant produces delicate, fern-like foliage that is finely divided and soft to the touch. The flowers have a unique, ornamental structure with a prominent central seedpod surrounded by a crown of lacy bracts. The seeds of this plant are spicy and have been used as a seasoning in some cultures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Nigella |
Appearance
Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll is a beautiful plant that can grow up to 18 inches tall and wide. The leaves are finely divided, feathery, and light green. The flowers are usually blue, but can also be white, pink, or purple. The petals are surrounded by a crown of lacy bracts that give the flower a unique appearance. The central seedpod is also prominent and adds to the ornamental value of this plant. The seeds are small, black, and triangular in shape.
Care Guide
Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some guidelines:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. It prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can add compost or organic matter to improve the soil quality.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll can grow in hardiness zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, damping off, and root rot if the soil is too moist. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll is native to North Africa, Europe, and Southwest Asia but can be grown in other parts of the world as well. It prefers well-draining soil, full sun, and moderate temperatures. It can tolerate some drought and is an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: How long does it take for the seeds to germinate?
A: The seeds of Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll typically germinate in 7-14 days.
Q: Can the seeds be saved for the next growing season?
A: Yes, the seeds can be saved in a cool, dry place for the next growing season.
Q: How often should the plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Nigella Damascena
- Nigella Sativa
- Nigella Hispanica
- Nigella Arvensis
References
- “Nigella Damascena ‘Miss Jekyll’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250310&isprofile=0&basic=Nigella%20damascena.
- “Nigella Damascena Miss Jekyll.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/nigella/nigella-miss-jekyll.htm.
- “Nigella Damascena.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4702/nigella-damascena/details.
