Moluccella laevis (Bells of Ireland) – Elegance and Unique Garden Beauty

Moluccella laevis, commonly known as Bells of Ireland, is a striking and elegant annual plant that adds a unique touch of green to gardens, borders, and bouquets. This distinctive plant is known for its trumpet-shaped, bright green flowers and decorative stems, which add a sense of height and structure to any garden. Bells of Ireland is a favorite with gardeners and florists for its elegant form and long-lasting effect, both in the garden and in flower arrangements.

What is Moluccella laevis?

Moluccella laevis belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is an annual plant native to Turkey and the Middle East. It can reach a height of 60 to 120 cm and grows best in sunny, well-drained gardens.

Characteristics of Moluccella laevis:

• Flowers: Small, white flowers hidden within striking bright green, trumpet-shaped sepals, which together form the iconic “Bells of Ireland”.

• Leaves: Bright green, oval and slightly serrated; provide an attractive contrast with the trumpet-shaped flowers.

• Stems: Sturdy and upright, ideal for creating height and structure in flower beds and bouquets.

• Growth habit: Upright and bushy, suitable for borders, pots and as a cut flower.

Applications in garden and decoration

Moluccella laevis (Bells of Ireland) offers versatile applications:

• Borders and flower beds: Add height, structure and a striking green colour to gardens.

• Pot culture: Compact pots or containers on patios and balconies are ideal for this plant.

• Cut flowers: Long-lasting stems and unique shape make the plant popular in flower arrangements and bouquets.

• Combining with other plants: Works well with colorful summer bloomers such as Zinnia, Dahlia or Lathyrus for a vibrant mix.

Breeding and care

Moluccella laevis is relatively easy to grow, provided a few basic conditions are followed:

• Sunlight: Full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil; tolerates slight drought, but flowers better with regular watering.

• Water: Water moderately; the soil should not become soggy.

• Temperature: Heat-hardy; frost-sensitive. Sow indoors for early flowering or outdoors immediately after the last frost.

• Care: Remove faded flowers and thin the plants as needed to promote healthy growth.