Honeywort Cerinthe (Cerinthe major atropurpurea) A very distinct pollinating plant from the Borage family. Cerinthe plants are native to the Greek Islands and Mediterranean regions with references as early as 1597 by English herbalists John Gerard. The species is also commonly referred to as Pride of Gibraltar, Wax Flower and Blue Shrimp Flower. Plant foliage is uniquely waxy in nature with a green-grey hue, allowing the perfect backdrop for brilliantly drooping blue-purple bell-shaped flowers. Interestingly, the new foliage is a much lighter marbled white than older growth, soon to disappear as the stems and leaves age. Flower bract colour also darkens towards the evening hours when temperatures drop. We grow several stands of this plant to attract pollinators to our fields and hoop housing and they are all very busy and buzzy stands. Plants have performed equally well in dry beds and moist clay-loam soils. Mature plants average 24-30” in height but can reach 40” under ideal conditions with frequent moisture. A very interesting and rare species worthy of a space in your garden for aesthetics and the local pollinators. Considered an annual in most regions of Canada below zone 6b.
25 seeds per packet $4.45
Growing Instructions: Start seeds indoors in 3-4 inch pots about 4 to 6 weeks before last frost date. A 3-4 hour pre-soak of seeds is recommended. Keep pots moist, but not soggy under full light. Once seedlings are 4 to 6 inches tall, harden off and transplant seedlings 8 - 12 inches apart. Seeds can also be sown directly after last frost at a depth of 3⁄4 inch and 6 inches apart. Thin to 12 inches if necessary.
