The Story
Plant Bio
Nigella damascena, commonly known as love-in-a-mist, is known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and unique flower structure.
The Miss Jekyll Dark Blue cultivar features deep blue flowers with contrasting white centers, which are more vibrant than typical variants.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Seeds are poisonous if ingested in large quantities
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain moist soil and encourage germination.
- Thin seedlings to 8-12 inches apart once established.
- Water consistently during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds directly in the garden for best natural growth and vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Use organic compost to enrich soil
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
- Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist questions
What zones can Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist grow in?
Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist deer resistant?
Yes — Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist bloom?
Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist need full sun?
Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Nigella to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Miss Jekyll's Love-in-a-Mist with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.