Bells of Ireland

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis)
With their striking lime-green bells cascading along tall, graceful spires, Bells of Ireland add captivating height, texture, and whimsical charm to garden beds and floral arrangements alike. These enchanting blooms, with their soft, translucent calyxes surrounding tiny white flowers, evoke a sense of delicate elegance and rustic magic. Though their exotic appearance suggests rarity, Bells of Ireland are surprisingly hardy and flourish as easy-to-grow annuals, thriving even in cooler climates typical of Canadian gardens.

A versatile favourite, they shine equally well as fresh cut flowers—adding vertical drama and vibrant green hues to bouquets—or dried, where their bell shapes and colour hold beautifully for lasting arrangements. Also known as Shellflower and Molucca Balm, these spires pair wonderfully with creamy whites, soft purples, and dusty blues, creating garden scenes and floral designs that feel both romantic and whimsically wild.

A botanical treasure for those who cherish height, texture, and a splash of enchanting green in every bloom.

DETAILS:

QTY: 100

TYPE: Hardy Annual

SITE: Sun - Part Shade

DEPTH: Barley Cover

GERMINATION: 12-21 days at 18-20°C

HEIGHT: 24 - 36"

MATURITY: 90 - 110 Days

SPACING: 12"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:
Transplanting (recommended): Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your average last frost date. lightly cover, as light is required for germination. Bottom water or mist gently to avoid displacing the seeds. Germination can be slow and erratic. Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into larger containers. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Bells of Ireland prefer a cool start, and a few light frosts will not harm them. Thin seedlings to a final spacing of 6–12 inches apart.

Pinching and Support: Pinching is not necessary for Bells of Ireland. Taller plants may require support with stakes or netting, especially in windy areas, as the stems can become heavy.

Soil Preference and Watering: Bells of Ireland prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and establishment. Once mature, water regularly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary. Bells of Ireland are light feeders and can become leggy if given too much nitrogen. If your soil is poor, a single application of compost at planting time is sufficient.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the bells are fully developed and the tiny, true flowers inside are visible. Cut the stems in the early morning or late evening. Bells of Ireland are also excellent for drying; simply hang bunches of stems upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.

Tips: Germination can be slow and erratic—pre-chill seeds in the refrigerator, or place freshly sown trays outdoors for a few weeks before returning them to warmth.