Moluccella laevis

Moluccella laevis, the Bells-of-Ireland, Bells of Ireland, Molucca balmis, shellflower or shell flower, is a summer flowering annual, native to Turkey, Syria and the Caucasus. It is cultivated for its spikes of flowers. In the language of flowers, it represents luck.

Moluccella laevis
Persistent calyces
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Moluccella
Species:
M. laevis
Binomial name
Moluccella laevis

The tiny white flowers are surrounded by apple green calyces which are persistent. The rounded leaves are pale green.

Fast growing, Moluccella laevis will reach 1 metre (3.28 feet) and spread to 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) with an erect, branching habit.[1]

A member of the mint family, the blooming stems can be cut and used in fresh or dried flower arrangements. The domestic plant is self-seeding, prefers full sun and regular water and are unlikely to do well in hot, humid climates.

References
  1. Botanicas, Annuals and Perennials, Random House, Sydney, 2005
  • Jepson Manual Treatment
  • "Moluccella laevis". Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN). Agricultural Research Service (ARS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
  • Wisconsin Master Gardener Features: Bells of Ireland
  • USDA Plants Profile
  • Photo gallery
  • Moluccella laevis Flowers in Israel


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