Quick Guide: summer, half hardy, full sun, height: 60-90cm/2-3ft, width: 30cm/12in
A particular favourite with flower arrangers, Molucella laevis or bells-of-Ireland should not be overlooked as a useful addition to the summer border. Its green spires add height and provide the perfect foil for more showy plants. Each tiny white flower is surrounded by a light green, bowl-shaped calyx. No named varieties are available.
PROPAGATION Sow seed under protection in early spring. Harden the seedlings off before planting out in late spring. In favoured locations seed may be sown directly into the flowering site in spring and the seedlings thinned to 2.3cm/9in apart when they are large enough to handle.
GROWING Ordinary well-drained loam is best. Give molucellas a sheltered site. Pull up and discard plants after flowering.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.
