Devil In The Bush
Nigella damascena
- Native to:
- Albania, Algeria, Baleares, Bulgaria, Canary Is., Corse, Cyprus, East Aegean Is., France, Greece, Iran, Italy, Kriti, Krym, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, North Caucasus, NW. Balkan Pen., Portugal, Sardegna, Selvagens, Sicilia, Spain, Transcaucasus, Tunisia, Türkiye, Türkiye-in-Europe
Ermell
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Ranunculaceae
- Genus:
- Nigella
- Species:
- Nigella damascena
- USDA Symbol:
- NIDA
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Annual
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- jun,jul,aug
- Bloom Colors:
- blue, white, pink
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to Mediterranean regions with well-drained soils
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 14–21 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–28 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate best after cold stratification for 2-3 weeks; sow in place or in pots.
ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months. Requires darkness.
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Vermont Wildflower Farm (nursery and seeds)
- Sheffield's Seed (seeds)