Nigella — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Nigella damascena |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 10–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 15.6–21.1 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 65–80 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 15.2–22.9 |
| Mature height (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 15.2–22.9 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct sow in early spring 4 weeks before last frost by pressing seeds lightly into the soil surface in full sun; nigella does not transplant well because of its taproot, so sow in place and thin seedlings to 6–9 inches apart after they emerge. The delicate blue, white, or pink flowers are surrounded by a wispy cage of thread-like green bracts that give the plant its fanciful name, and the inflated, papery seed pods that follow are equally ornamental and dry beautifully for flower arrangements. Succession-plant every 2–3 weeks through spring for continuous bloom; plants decline and set seed in summer heat. Nigella self-sows reliably and will naturalize in cool-season beds once established.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0