NIGHT SCENTED GILLIFLOWER

Hesperis matronalis

This very attractive herbal plant can grow to 1m tall and has long leaves that are used in salads when young, before the plant flowers. It has masses of flowers which are sometimes mistaken for Phlox. The flowers produce a strong and delightful scent late in the afternoon and early night. It has been used for centuries for its herbal properties. Plant the seeds shallowly in in trays in early spring. Keep the soil damp and slightly shaded until they germinate which can take from 7-20 days. Transplant into the garden when frosts have finished and the seedlings are established. They like the soil to have added lime or woodash or dolomite and prefer light shade. They do very well when mass planted. This plant is a Biennial and flowers only in the second year of its growth but produces large amounts of leaves which are rich in vitamin C. It grows well throughout winter in most areas but does not do overly well in Tropical areas.

QTY 225 seeds

Image by Ulrike Leone from Pixabay