Bells of Ireland

Bells of Ireland — variety description

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis) is an annual flower of the mint family (Lamiaceae). An unusual annual with tall spires of green, papery, bell-shaped flowers. Fantastic in the garden, filling in and contrasting with other flowers.

The actual blooms are small and white, giving an overall green look. Multiple stems emerge, offering an abundance of blooms on each plant.

Long-lasting once cut, they can also be dried by harvesting in late summer and hanging upside down.

Molucella ("bells of Ireland") has green calyces on tall stems — a fashionable bouquet flower.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 75%
• Pack size: 0.2 g
• Seed origin: India
• Sowing: March and April; seedlings
• Flowering: June – November
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Bells of Ireland

Bells of Ireland seeds are sown in March and April. The plants flower in June – November. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Bells of Ireland

• Sowing method: seedlings
• Depth: on the surface (germinates in light)
• Spacing: 20–30 cm
• Germination: 10–20 days at 18–22 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Sow under cover February-April, at a depth of 3 mm in seed compost. As cold is required for germination, place the trays and pots of sown seeds in sealed plastic bags and chill at 3-5°C for 2 weeks. Then propagate at 18-21°C until germination. When large enough to handle, transplant the seedlings into larger pots and grow on. Plant this specimen in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil.

Cold stratification improves germination.

Flowering and uses

For fresh and dried bouquets.

Frequently asked questions

When should Bells of Ireland be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March and April. Sowing method: seedlings.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 75%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.