Moluccella laevis, the Bells-of-Ireland, Bells of Ireland, Molucca balmis, shellflower or shell flower, is a summer flowering annual, native to Turkey, Syria and the Caucasus. It is cultivated for its spikes of flowers. In the language of flowers, it represents luck.
| Moluccella laevis | |
|---|---|
| |
| Persistent calyces | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Moluccella |
| Species: | M. laevis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Moluccella laevis | |
The tiny white flowers are surrounded by apple green calyces which are persistent. The rounded leaves are pale green.
Fast growing, Moluccella laevis will reach 1 metre (3.28 feet) and spread to 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) with an erect, branching habit.[1]
A member of the mint family, the blooming stems can be cut and used in fresh or dried flower arrangements. The domestic plant is self-seeding, prefers full sun and regular water and is unlikely to do well in hot, humid climates.
References
edit- ^ Botanicas, Annuals and Perennials, Random House, Sydney, 2005
External links
edit
- Jepson Manual Treatment
- "Moluccella laevis". Germplasm Resources Information Network. Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture.
- Wisconsin Master Gardener Features: Bells of Ireland[permanent dead link]
- USDA Plants Profile
- Photo gallery
- Moluccella laevis Flowers in Israel
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