Nigella damascena

Nigella damascena is a flowering plant species in the family Ranunculaceae. Commonly known as love-in-a-mist or ragged lady, it is native to southern Europe, north Africa, and southwest Asia, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, from plains to mountainous regions.

Description

Nigella damascena is an annual plant, growing to 20–50 cm tall. The leaves are finely divided and feathery, growing on stems that are branched from the base. The flowers, which appear in late spring and early summer, are most commonly blue, but can also be white or pink. They are surrounded by a green bract, which gives the plant its common name of 'love-in-a-mist'. The fruit is a large, inflated capsule, containing numerous black seeds.

Cultivation and uses

Nigella damascena is widely cultivated in gardens for its attractive flowers and interesting seed pods. It is easy to grow from seed and often self-seeds in the garden. The seeds are also used in cooking, particularly in Middle Eastern cuisine, where they are known as 'black cumin'. In traditional medicine, the seeds have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems and skin conditions.

Ecology

Nigella damascena is a valuable plant for pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers. It is also a host plant for the caterpillars of some species of moths.

Cultural significance

In folklore, Nigella damascena is often associated with protection and good luck. It is sometimes included in wedding bouquets as a symbol of love and fidelity.

See also

• Nigella sativa
• Ranunculaceae
• List of culinary herbs and spices