Nigella Hispanica Seeds

Nigella hispanica is a Hardy Annual.

It completes its life cycle in one season. It is slightly more robust than the common Nigella damascena, with broader leaves and thicker stems.

The Self-Seeder: Like all Nigellas, it is a generous self-seeder. If you leave the decorative pods to ripen on the plant, they will eventually split and scatter seeds, ensuring you have a free display next year.

Top Tip: Unlike many cut flowers, Nigella hates being transplanted. Always sow it directly where you want it to flower for the best results.

This is a fuss-free plant that thrives on neglect.

Germination:
Sow directly outdoors in Autumn (Sept) for bigger plants next year, or Spring (March-May) for summer blooms. Scatter seeds onto raked soil and cover lightly (3-5mm deep). Germination takes 14-21 days.

Where to Sow:
They love full sun. They thrive in average or poor soil and are excellent for gravel gardens. Avoid rich, manured soil as it encourages leaf growth over flowers.

Care While Growing:
Thin the seedlings! This is the most important step. If they are crowded, they will be small and spindly. Thin them to about 25cm apart to allow them to grow into bushy plants.

The deep violet-blue of Nigella hispanica looks stunning with hot pinks or structural grasses:

• 🌺 Cosmos 'Dazzler': The vibrant clash. The deep crimson of the Cosmos pairs beautifully with the royal blue of the Nigella. Both are airy, informal plants that mingle well in a border.
• 🌾 Briza Maxima (Quaking Grass): Texture harmony. The locket-shaped seed heads of the grass complement the architectural "Jester Hat" seed pods of the Nigella. A match made in dried-flower heaven.

Sow directly outdoors in autumn or spring. Flowers mid-summer. Seed heads late summer.