Moluccella laevis
bells of Ireland
M. laevis is a upright annual to 90cm tall, with bluntly toothed ovate leaves and, in late summer, long spikes of small, 2-lipped white or pale pink flowers, each held within a large, white-veined, pale green, bell-shaped calyx; good dried flower
Other common names
Irish bell flowerIrish bells
see moreIrish green bells
needles and thread
old maid's nightcap
smooth molucca balm
shell flower
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Moluccella are erect annuals with opposite, scalloped, broadly ovate leaves and dense spikes of small 2-lipped flowers with large, bell-shaped calyces; useful for dried flower arrangement
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 13-18°C (55-64°F) in early or mid-spring, or in situ in late spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.