Cerinthe, also known as Honeywort, is a visually captivating plant that offers unique architectural beauty to any garden.
With its arching stems and cascades of purple-blue bell-shaped flowers, Cerinthe is not only stunning but also easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners.
Getting Started
Cerinthe can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sown directly outdoors in early spring. The seeds are large and only need a light covering of soil to germinate. For indoor starts, maintain a soil temperature of around 10-15°C (50-59°F). This warm environment helps in early seed development.
Location and Light
When selecting a spot for your Cerinthe, choose an area that receives full sun to partial shade. This flexibility in sun exposure allows you to integrate Cerinthe into various parts of your garden, from sunny borders to slightly shaded undergrowths.
Spacing and Care
Once seedlings have matured, space or transplant them approximately 30-45cm (12-18 inches) apart. This spacing gives each plant ample room to flourish without overcrowding.
Regular watering during dry spells promotes continuous growth and flower production. Additionally, mulching around the plants in spring helps keep the soil cool and moist, which is crucial for their development.
Growth and Maintenance
Cerinthe is known for its ability to self-sow. This characteristic means that once you plant Cerinthe, you might find new plants popping up in subsequent seasons without any additional planting. Despite its self-sowing nature, Cerinthe is not invasive, making it a considerate addition to shared garden spaces.
Why Grow Cerinthe?
Apart from its ease of growth and beautiful appearance, Cerinthe attracts pollinators like bees to the garden, enhancing pollination of surrounding plants. Its unique structure and color make it an excellent choice for both large containers and flower borders, providing versatility in garden design.