Cerinthe major (Honeywort) is a Mediterranean native annual with distinctive blue-green foliage and striking purple-blue tubular flowers surrounded by colorful sea-blue bracts that deepen in cool weather. The seed has a hard coat, and soaking overnight can speed germination, which typically occurs within 5-21 days under proper conditions. Light is required for germination and seedlings develop best at temperatures between 18-21°C with high light intensity.
Before sowing
Optional soaking overnight or for a few hours in warm water improves germination rate
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost to transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Light is essential—do not exclude light during germination. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light once seeds germinate. Thin seedlings to 30 cm apart when large enough to handle. Harden off for 7-10 days before transplanting. Seeds are very large and should be sown individually in small pots or cell trays. Cerinthe self-seeds readily; in temperate zones remove parent plant in late summer and lightly mulch over seeds. Attracts bees and hummingbirds.
Sources: Thompson & Morgan, Johnny's Selected Seeds, Wisconsin Horticulture Extension, Outside Pride, Seed Aholic, West Coast Seeds, Premier Seeds Direct
