Description
Boraginaceae (family name)
Forage for Pollinators: This produces abundant Nectar for all bees and possibly pollen too. The flowers are pollinated by bees.
Flowering time: May, June, July, August, September
Growing information: HALF-HARDY ANNUAL growing to 0.6m (2 feet) high by 0.4m (1 foot) wide. The species Cerinthe major is native to the Mediterranean, where subspecies such as this one, purpurascens, with blue bracts and purple flowers, and another subspecies, Cerinthe major subsp. major which has sea-green bracts with yellow flowers. Likes a sunny aspect on any well-drained soil. Generally pest and disease-free.
Cerinthe major subsp. purpurascens is best sown in March or April under cover, germinating fast, then potted to harden off, before planting out in a prepared bed, mid or front of border. We found that propagating in Autumn resulted in seedlings being damaged by late spring frosts.
This is one of the best magnets for bees, and most effective when grown in a large drift. We also found it really effective inter-planted with broad beans. One of our (and bees’) favourite plants, on a par with Borage, a member of the same family.
1g equals approximately 16 large seeds
