Cerinthe

Cerinthe, also known as Honeywort, is a striking ornamental herb and a relative of borage. Its smooth, blue-green foliage and uniquely changing flower bracts make it a standout in any garden. The bracts deepen to a rich blue at night and shift to a soft purple in warmer daylight, creating an ever-changing display.

A favourite among pollinators, Cerinthe is low-maintenance and thrives with little effort, self-seeding freely to return year after year. Its graceful, arching stems and bell-shaped blooms make it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements.

Where Can You Grow Cerinthe

Cerinthe thrives in Zones 4-9, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It grows beautifully in garden beds, cottage-style plantings, and containers, bringing an elegant yet wild charm to any setting.

History and Historical Uses

Native to the Mediterranean, Cerinthe has been grown for centuries as an ornamental plant and bee-friendly herb. Historically, it was prized for its nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators, making it a valuable companion plant for vegetable and herb gardens.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds directly outdoors in autumn or early spring for a continuous display.
• Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors in late winter and transplant after the last frost.
• Zones 4: Direct sow in spring after the last frost or start indoors for an earlier bloom.

How to Grow and Harvest Cerinthe

1. Planting: Sow seeds 1cm (0.5in) deep, spacing plants 20-30cm (8-12in) apart.
2. Watering: Water moderately during establishment; Cerinthe is drought-tolerant once mature.
3. Maintenance: Trim back spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming, or allow them to self-seed.
4. Harvesting: Cut stems when bracts are fully coloured for long-lasting floral arrangements.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow to Flower and Seed: Leave some flowers on the plant to develop seed pods.
2. Harvest Seeds: Once pods dry and turn brown, collect them before they fall.
3. Dry and Clean: Spread seeds on a towel to dry completely before storing.
4. Store: Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)