Nigella Miss Jekyll Alba Seeds

Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll Alba', also known as White Love-in-a-Mist, is a charming and elegant annual that features delicate, pure white flowers surrounded by a lacy tangle of feathery foliage. This stunning variety adds a touch of grace to any garden, with its soft, airy appearance making it an ideal choice for cutting gardens, borders, or wildflower meadows.

 

The genus Nigella comes from the Latin word "niger," meaning "black," referring to the plant's dark seeds. Damascena refers to its origin in the Middle East, particularly around the Damascus region. Miss Jekyll Alba is named after the famous British horticulturist Gertrude Jekyll, who was renowned for her contributions to garden design. The ‘Alba’ variety of Nigella is prized for its pure white flowers, offering a striking contrast to its fine, fern-like foliage.

 

Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll Alba' is known for its reliability and beauty in UK gardens. It is especially popular for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the seed pods are also sought after for use in dried flower arrangements.

 

This variety grows to a height of 45 - 60 cm, making it ideal for the middle of borders or mixed flower beds. Its compact nature and graceful blooms make it an excellent choice for adding texture and a soft contrast to more robust plants.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 700

 

Sow: March - May (indoors) or April - June (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly acidic pH

Height: 45 - 60 cm

Flowering: June - August

Companion Plants: Cosmos, Lavender, Poppies

Avoid Planting With: Heavier, shade-loving plants

 

Miss Jekyll Alba is easy to grow and relatively low-maintenance, making it a perfect choice for beginner gardeners. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, though it is adaptable to a range of growing conditions. Once established, it requires little attention other than occasional watering and deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooms.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from March to May. Lightly press the seeds into the surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared soil from April to June. Scatter seeds thinly on the soil surface and gently press them down. Keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to a spacing of 25 - 30 cm for healthy growth.

 

With its delicate white flowers, airy foliage, and fragrant blooms, Nigella Miss Jekyll Alba is an enchanting addition to any garden. Its ease of care and versatility make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to add soft elegance to their outdoor spaces.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range