Cerinthe (AKA Honeywort) is an elegant looking plant that stands out for its unusual habit. Each stem arches upward out forward with a seemingly endless series of purple-blue bell shaped flowers. This plant works very well in larger containers or flower borders.
Latin
Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens'
Family: Boraginaceae
Difficulty
Very easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Starting
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).
Growing
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.
