Miss Jekyll Nigella Seeds

Nigella is an unusual looking flower that is artful with unique blooms and seed pods. Seeds should be planted close to the surface of the soil as light helps them germinate. Nigella is a great cut flower and also dries well.

Planting by Zones

Zones 9-10

• Nigella is an easy to grow flower with artful blooms and pods that make beautiful arrangements. In long growing seasons like Zones 9 and 10, sow nigella 3-4 times every 21 days for continuous blooms. Sow in the fall for early spring blooms.

Zones 2-8

• Grown as annual. Sow seeds directly in the ground when the soil is 60 degrees.

Planting Nigella Seeds

• Direct sowing seed is recommended as plants are sensitive to transplanting. Seeds are very small and should be sown close to the surface of the soil as they need light for germination. Cover only with a small amount of finely sifted soil.
• On our farm, we have had success with transplanting nigella. Follow the same directions whether you direct sow or transplant out. For transplanting, sprinkle seeds over well-moistened quality seed starting soil in trays or starter pots. Transplant nigella plants out when they have 3-4 sets of healthy true leaves.

Growing Nigella

• This unique flower works well in vegetable gardens and in cut flower gardens. In areas of extreme heat, the plant will enjoy part shade.

Growing Nigella in Containers

• If you are planting nigella in containers, make sure your container is at least 10″ deep. We do not recommend planting more than one plant per container as they can get large. Overcrowding will cause the plant to be unhappy and provide fewer blooms. The larger the container, the more blooms you will get. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture.

Harvesting Nigella Flowers

• Nigella flowers are stunning in arrangements. Harvest flowers early in the morning when the flower buds are fully colored. You can also leave the flowers to create seed pods that are equally beautiful in arrangements.

Southern California Pro-tips

• In areas of Zones 9 and 10 with mild winters, you can plant nigella in the fall to grow through the winter and bloom in the spring.
• Mulch heavily around the base of the plants to keep in moisture and keep the soil cool.
• DO NOT overhead water as this promotes disease.

Companion Flowers/Crops

• Nigella grows well with other cut flowers or in the vegetable garden. We love to grow them in front of our sunflowers, hollyhocks, and other tall blooming flowers. Shop all our flowers here.

Additional Learning Resources

• New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics!
• Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page!

Having pest issues? Check out the in depth information at the UC Integrated Pest Management site.