Lady-in-the-Bathtub Moluccella laevis

Bells of Ireland is a semi-hardy annual in the mint family, native to the Caucasus mountains and noted for producing a mid-summer to fall bloom of showy, fragrant, white flower spikes. Cup-shaped green calyces encase the flowers and are densely packed along each flower spike from top nearly to base. Tiny stem thorns are sharp to the touch. Calyces remaining attractive to late summer before turning beige. The genus name refers to the Moluccca Islands off Indonesia where these plants were once thought to be native. The species name means smooth.

Bells of Ireland performs best in cool summer climates, sited in full sun, in well-drained, consistently moist, loose and moderately fertile soil. It will tolerate light shade and poor soil with good drainage. It would probably not do well in a hot, humid climate.

This is an excellent plant for fresh cut or dried flower arrangements. For dried flowers, it is best to cut flower stems prior to seed ripening and hang the stems in bunches in dry places with good air circulation.

You can sow seed outdoors a few weeks before the last frost date, or, in warm winter climates, you can sow in fall. Seed can be started indoors about 8 to 10 weeks before last frost date, but plants do best when started outdoors. Bells of Ireland can benefit from an application of fertilizer for larger spikes and stakes to prevent sprawl. Cut stems prior to seed formation to prevent self-seeding.

Bells of Ireland is not native to Ireland. The common name probably refers to the green color of the calyces.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious diseases or insect pests. Hot and humid summers can be a problem.