Love-in-a-mist - Nigella damascena (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Love-in-a-mist

Also known as: Ragged lady

Love-in-a-mist is a member of the buttercup family with leaves that resemble those of the dill plant. The flowers, which bloom in early summer, sport tiny black seeds at their centers. Love-in-a-mist seeds get added to bread in some Middle-Eastern countries with a flavor like oregano or nutmeg. But note that it could be toxic if ingested in quantities.

Scientific classification

Species

Love-in-a-mist (Nigella damascena)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

1.5 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Blue, White, Pink, Purple, Lavender

Flower Color

Green, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Love-in-a-mist

Distribution of Love-in-a-mist

Distribution Map

Love-in-a-mist is native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is found in damp ground with full sun. It has been introduced to Europe, Asia, parts of three states in North America and Ethiopia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Stony, sunny positions

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Love-in-a-mist has been cultivated in cottage gardens in England since the 1500s. This classic blue flower looks lovely in borders and beds, and, with the right watering strategy, can thrive in containers. It should be placed in a location where its fine texture and striking flowers aren’t drowned out by taller plants. Pair it with dianthus, cosmos, and cranesbill.

Symbolism

The Romantic

Interesting Facts

Love-in-a-mist has been cultivated for over 400 years and is related to Nigella sativa, the source of nigella, or black cumin spice. Love-in-a-mist seeds contain Damascenine, a toxic alkaloid, but they have not been found to be poisonous to mice or human cells in scientific studies. Nevertheless, gardeners say humans should avoid consuming love-in-a-mist.

Name Story

Love-in-a-mist: The plant is supported by a thread-like leaf, known as ruff which is one of the cultivar favorites among the mist plant. This gives the appearance of the flowers surrounded by a mist, so it is given the romantic name love-in-a-mist. The double flowers sprout on top of the "mist" in blue, pink and white colors.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Love-in-a-mist, including the following common varieties :

Love-in-a-mist 'Miss Jekyll'Love-in-a-mist 'Albion Green Pod'Love-in-a-mist 'Miss Jekyll Alba'Love-in-a-mist 'Oxford Blue'

Toxicity

Love-in-a-mist contains the toxin damascenine, which attacks the liver and nervous system when ingested. All parts of love-in-a-mist, especially the seeds, are toxic and can cause severe illness in dogs, cats, and humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, liver inflammation, convulsions, and potentially coma or death. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets ingest love-in-a-mist.

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Quickly Identify Love-in-a-mist

Delicate, feathery foliage with finely-cut, lacy leaves.

Unique blue flowers with 5-10 star-like petals, 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) across.

Egg-shaped fruit capsules with horn-like protrusions, 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter.

Bristled surface on mature fruit capsules, suitable for dried arrangements.

Intricate, lace-like flower structure with mild, sweet fragrance.

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Care Guide for Love-in-a-mist

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Love-in-a-mist thrives with balanced sunlight and moisture, requiring moderate weekly watering. It prefers consistent soil moisture without waterlogging, typical of its temperate origins. As an annual herb, love-in-a-mist benefits from natural rain during its growing season for optimal health.

Fertilize: Love-in-a-mist thrives with high phosphorus fertilizers for optimal blooming. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during growth, reducing in winter. Distribute evenly at the base and water thoroughly afterwards. Periodic fertilization enhances vigor and flowering, while ensuring safety by wearing gloves and washing hands post-use.

Pruning: Love-in-a-mist thrives with light pruning in early to late spring, which includes removing spent blooms and cutting back damaged stems. This practice supports continuous flowering, robust development, and improved air circulation, ultimately enhancing the plant's health and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Love-in-a-mist is best propagated by sowing in Spring, requiring sufficient moisture and space to prevent overcrowding. Successful germination indicates effective propagation, leading to healthy young seedlings.

Repotting: Love-in-a-mist requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive. Ensuring proper drainage helps prevent root rot and promotes healthy growth.

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Images of Love-in-a-mist

Distribution of Love-in-a-mist

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Love-in-a-mist

Care Guide for Love-in-a-mist

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