Honeywort, Cerinthe Seed
Approx.. 21 seeds per packet
Wonderful Cut Flower. For a long vase life, putting stems in near boiling water prevents wilting and they will last a very long time in the vase!
This annual is one of the best for beginner gardeners as it is one of the easiest and most rewarding garden flowers to grow. Honeywort is deer resistant, drought resistant, and works well in patio containers. Its arching stems grow to around 60cm (24") tall and have a summer-long bloom time as new flowers continue to open from the ends of each branching stem. The bluish grey foliage resembles Eucalyptus, and is just as useful in cut flower displays. The ancient Greeks believed that bees extracted wax from the flowers in order to build honeycomb, perhaps because bees adore the abundant, nectar-rich flowers. Pronounced 'seer-inth' - the final 'e' is silent.
Annual
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors in early spring. Just cover the large seeds. If starting indoors, provide bright light and a soil temperature of 10-15°C (65-70°F).
Space or transplant 30-45cm (12-18″) apart. Water regularly during dry spells. Mulch around the stems in spring to keep the soil cool and moist. Cerinthe tends to self-sow, but is never invasive.




