Bishop's Flower
Bishop's Flower, also known as Ammi majus, is an elegant flowering plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It features delicate, lacy white flowers arranged in umbels atop tall, slender stems. The plant grows up to 3 feet in height and adds a graceful touch to garden beds and bouquets.
Origin: Bishop's Flower is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia.
Usage: Bishop's Flower is commonly used in floral arrangements and cut flower gardens. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to the garden.
Interesting facts: The name "Bishop's Flower" refers to its historic use in religious ceremonies and its resemblance to the ornamental laces worn by bishops.
HOW TO GROW
General requirements: Bishop's Flower is an annual plant that is relatively easy to grow.
Temperature and Light: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Soil: Bishop's Flower prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0). Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and adding organic matter such as compost.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Water the plant at the base to prevent wetting the foliage, which can promote diseases.
Planting: Start Bishop's Flower seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Sow the seeds in trays or pots filled with a seed-starting mix, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C) for germination. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.
Spacing: Space the plants 8 to 12 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Maintenance: Remove any weeds that compete with the plants for nutrients and water. Mulching around the base of the plants can help suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture.
Fertilizer: Bishop's Flower generally doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Pests and Diseases: Bishop's Flower is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for aphids, caterpillars, and powdery mildew. Treat any infestations or diseases promptly using organic methods or suitable insecticides/fungicides.
HARVESTING AND SEED SAVING
Harvesting: Bishop's Flower is primarily grown for its attractive flowers. Harvest the blooms when they are fully open but before they start to fade. Cut the stems with sharp scissors or pruners just above a leaf node or bud to encourage further flower production.
Seed Saving: Allow some flowers to remain on the plant and go to seed. As the flowers dry out, they will form seed heads. Once the seed heads turn brown and start to crack open, gently collect the seeds and remove any debris. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place in a labeled envelope or airtight container for future planting.
FAST FACTS
- Common name: Bishop's Flower
- Latin name: Ammi majus
- Growth habit: Upright, slender stems with lacy white flowers
- Life cycle: Annual
- USDA Zones: 3-10
- Seeds per ounce: Approximately 1,500
