Bells of Ireland - Moluccella laevis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Bells of Ireland

Also known as: Shellflower, Molucca balmis

A hardy annual, bells of Ireland grow tiny white flowers embedded in pretty green calyxes. These self-seeding flowers have a pretty fragrance and can be used for cut flowers. They can be companion planted behind tulips for a pretty mix of flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Mid summer

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Bells of Ireland

Distribution of Bells of Ireland

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Luck

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bells of Ireland, including the following common varieties :

Bells of Ireland 'Pixie Bells'

Quickly Identify Bells of Ireland

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Bells of Ireland

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from the eastern Mediterranean, bells of Ireland prefers semi-arid conditions with moderate moisture. A weekly watering schedule is ideal; it's resilient to brief droughts. As an annual, bells of Ireland's hydration needs increase during the growing season for optimal growth and ornamental value.

Fertilize: For bells of Ireland, use high phosphorus fertilizer bi-weekly during the growing season, starting in spring, at half-strength for young plants. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn, and reduce to monthly in colder months. Employ slow-release or water-soluble formulas to boost growth and flowering potential.

Pruning: Bells of Ireland features tall green spires and bell-shaped flowers. Prune in early to late spring, removing dead stems and spent flowers to encourage growth and air circulation. Avoid over-pruning to maintain blooming and enhance the plant's overall health and display.

Propagation: Bells of Ireland propagation is best done by sowing seeds in spring. Use a well-draining soil mix and keep consistent moisture to ensure successful seedling emergence, indicating a successful propagation process.

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Images of Bells of Ireland

Distribution of Bells of Ireland

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Bells of Ireland

Care Guide for Bells of Ireland

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Common Pests & Diseases