Bunium bulbocastanum

RHS Plant Profile
great pignut

Other common names

cat nut, deil's oatmeal, earth chestnut, fare nut, great earthnut, hare nut, hog nut, kipper nut, St Anthony's nut, earth nut, pignut

Herbaceous Perennial

A rare native, found only at a few sites in England. Growing to about 60cm, with slender, branched, leafy stems topped with delicate umbels of white flowers. Has been grown for its small, edible tubers, spicy seeds known as black cumin and finely-divided, parsley-substitute leaves

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Apiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe, Africa Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Found naturally in grassy areas on dry chalk, especially where disturbed. Prefers well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in a sunny spot. Seedlings need open ground to develop but once mature will thrive in meadows

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or by division of large clumps

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required. Can cut down dead stems in early spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free