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Bells of Ireland

How to identify Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis)

Bells of Ireland, also known as Shellflower, Molucca balmis

Bells of Ireland is recognized for its striking flower spikes that bloom in the warmer months from mid-summer to autumn. Each robust spike features densely arranged green calyces with minute, inconspicuous thorns along the stem that can be felt upon touch. These thorns provide a prickly texture. The plant typically thrives in cooler summer conditions and exhibits a semi-hardy annual growth cycle. It reaches a mature height that can range from 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm), making it a noticeable addition to garden spaces.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Bells of Ireland

1

Striking flower spikes with green calyces and prickly thorns, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.

2

Tiny, fragrant white blooms enclosed in large, cup-shaped green calyces, forming 3-foot (90 cm) spikes.

3

Light green leaves, oval to heart-shaped, 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long, with serrated edges and visible veins.

Bells of IrelandBells of IrelandBells of IrelandBells of IrelandBells of Ireland

Detailed Traits of Bells of Ireland

Leaf Features

The leaves of bells of Ireland are light green, approximately 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) in length. They are generally oval to slightly heart-shaped with finely serrated edges. The leaves possess a smooth texture and a soft, somewhat velvety feel. Prominent veins are visible, creating a delicate pattern across the leaf's surface. These attributes, combined with their light green color, make the leaves a distinctive feature of bells of Ireland, aiding in easy identification.

Leaf Shape

Ovate

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Apex

Obtuse

Learn About the Leaf Glossary
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Flower Features

The flowers of bells of Ireland feature tiny, fragrant white blooms measuring about 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) in diameter. These are encased within large, cup-shaped green calyces, which are the most visually striking part. Each calyx is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and forms a densely packed spike that can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height. The flowers bloom from late summer to early autumn, providing a unique and long-lasting visual appeal.

Bells of Ireland Flower image
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Key Facts About Bells of Ireland

Attributes of Bells of Ireland
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial, Biennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
1 m
Flower Color
White
Green
Fruit Color
Green
Stem Color
Green
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Bells of Ireland

Family
Mint
Icon allow
Species
Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis)
Learn More About the Bells of Ireland

Distribution Map of Bells of Ireland

Bells of Ireland is natively found in a region encompassing Western Asia and parts of the Eastern Mediterranean. It is cultivated and has naturalized in a broad range of other areas, including parts of Eastern Europe, Northern and Eastern Africa, East and South America, and Australasia. This distribution indicates bells of Ireland's adaptability to diverse environmental conditions beyond its indigenous range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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