Delft Blue Love-in-a-mist is a captivating cultivar of Nigella papillosa that brings delicate, paper-thin blue flowers to gardens across zones 2 through 11. From seed to bloom in 84 days, this 24 to 30-inch tall beauty produces airy sprays of blooms from March through August, drawing pollinators throughout spring and summer. Direct sow this charmer in early spring or again in midsummer for continuous color, and you'll have an effortless, cottage-garden staple that thrives in full sun with moderate water.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
30in H x 12in W
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Moderate
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The delicate blue flowers of this Nigella cultivar have an ethereal quality that floats above fine, feathery foliage like clouds suspended in air. At 24 to 30 inches tall and just 12 inches wide, it fits neatly into borders and cottage gardens without demanding much space. The seedpods that follow the flowers are equally ornamental, creating a two-season display from spring through late summer. Grow it in full sun with average watering and rich soil amended with compost, and you'll have a low-maintenance bloomer that birds and bees find irresistible.
Love-in-a-mist is primarily a cut flower and ornamental garden plant, prized for its airy blooms and delicate texture in fresh arrangements. The feathery foliage and distinctive seedpods add depth and movement to bouquets, while the flowers themselves brighten borders and cottage gardens with their soft blue tones.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Direct sow seeds outdoors 3 to 4 weeks before your last spring frost for early blooms. You can also sow again in early to midsummer for a second flush of flowers. In zones 7 through 10, try fall sowing for winter-spring blooms. Seeds sprout in 7 to 21 days under cool conditions.
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