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How to Grow Bells of Ireland Plant

Annual, Moluccela Laevis

Bells of Ireland plants are best known for their tall, dark green spires, which are thickly covered by lighter green, bell-shaped calyces (leaves). The plant does produce small white or pink flowers. The lush leaves, tend to hide the  flower blooms. The flowers have a pleasant scent., blooming once a season.

Bells of Ireland are not native to Ireland. They are native to Syria, Turkey and the Caucuses. Historically, Bells of Ireland plants have been considered a lucky symbol. Their name is linked to the "Luck" of the Irish.

The spikes of Bells of Ireland are used fresh or in dried arrangements. They are widely used for St. Patrick's Day arrangements. As a lucky symbol, they are also popular in wedding bouquets and arrangements.

Use caution when handling these plants. The stalks have small thorns.

Try these attractive plants in a container on your balcony or deck. They just might bring you luck!

 Other Names: Shellflowers, Moducella Balm

Plant Height: 2' - 3'

Plant Propagation:

Bells of Ireland are grown from seed. They are cool weather plants.

Bells of Ireland do not transplant well.

Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date in your area, and barely cover with soil. The seeds need light to germinate. Plants are good re-seeders.

Seeds will take 25-35 days to germinate. So, you may want to mark the planting site.

Keep seeds moist.

How to Grow Bells of Ireland Plants:

Bells of Ireland plants grow best cool weather, in full to partial sun. They do best in rich, loam soils, but will grow in average soils with regular applications of fertilizer.

Select a location for these tall plants, in the back of the flower garden. They also look good in a container on your patio or deck.

Space plants about 12 inches apart.

Keep soil evenly moist. Water frequently in dry weather.

Add a high nitrogen fertilizer once a month, to promote lush, healthy growth.

 Protect plants from high winds. Stake spikes as needed.

Drying Plants - For dried arrangements, harvest plants in mid to late summer, when flowers are at their peak. Hang stalks  upside down to warm, dry, well ventilated area.

Flowers Bloom: Spring thru Fall

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