Reseda odorata, commonly known as mignonette or sweet reseda, is an annual flowering plant that belongs to the Resedaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region but can be found in other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant is famous for its sweet fragrance, which is why it is commonly grown in gardens and used in perfumes.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Dicotyledoneae |
| Order | Capparales |
| Family | Resedaceae |
| Genus | Reseda |
Appearance
The mignonette plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 20 cm. Its leaves are lance-shaped, light green, and have a rough texture. The flowers are small, about 1-2 mm in diameter, and are arranged in a compact spike. They are usually greenish-white, but some species can have yellow or pinkish flowers. The plant produces small, brown, and round fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
To grow mignonette, one needs to follow the following care guidelines:
Water
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the summer season. It is essential to water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the leaves and causing fungal infections. Avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Reseda odorata requires regular fertilization to grow healthy and produce flowers. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.0-8.0.
Sunlight
Mignonette requires full sun to partial shade to grow and produce flowers. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Reseda odorata is an annual plant that can grow in hardiness zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The mignonette plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
- Cabbage loopers
Diseases
- Downy mildew
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
- Botrytis blight
To prevent these pests and diseases, one should ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil, receives adequate sunlight, and is not over-watered. In case of an infestation or disease, one should remove the affected parts and use appropriate pesticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Mignonette is native to the Mediterranean region but can be found in other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows in open areas, fields, gardens, and waste places. The plant requires well-drained soil, adequate sunlight, and moderate water to grow and produce flowers.
Question and Answer
Q. Can mignonette be grown indoors?
A. Yes, mignonette can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with adequate sunlight.
Q. How long does it take for mignonette to flower?
A. Mignonette takes about 8-10 weeks to flower from seed.
Q. Is the fragrance of mignonette strong?
A. Yes, the fragrance of mignonette is strong and sweet.
Q. Can mignonette be used in perfumes?
A. Yes, mignonette is commonly used in perfumes due to its sweet fragrance.
Related Plants
- Reseda alba
- Reseda lutea
- Reseda phyteuma
- Reseda suffruticosa
References
- “Reseda odorata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281388
- “Reseda odorata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10683/Reseda-odorata/Details
- “Mignonette.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/mignonette.html
