Saint Patrick’s Day arrives and we all want to become part Irish. If you enjoy that feeling, why not try your luck at growing unique green flowers? Subtle, yet uncommon, these flowers will bring a smile. Green flowers were once rare, but now, dance a jig because there are many available.
A striking example of dramatic green flowers are Bells of Ireland (Molucella laevis). This plant is an easy-to-grow annual. The flowers look like pale green bells with tiny white flowers inside. This plant appears to be the work of a leprechaun. Another common name for this flower is Lady-in-the-Bath, because the green oblong calyxes (bells) are shaped like little bathtubs, and the inner flower, with imagination, appears to be a miniature lady bathing.
Bells of Ireland thrive in full sun and sandy soil. In mild climates, sow the seeds in late fall. In cold climates, sow after danger of frost has passed. Their seeds require light to germinate so don’t cover, instead, press the seeds lightly into the soil. Plants are available in some nurseries now. In warm climates, they often bloom in time for St. Patrick’s Day.
photo from www.anniesannuals.com
If you want green,fragrant flowers to fill a shady nook, then nicotiana is ideal. This plant pictured above, is known as flowering tobacco, and comes in ‘Lime Green’ (Nicotiana alata). When you see this woodland plant covered with perfumed, lime-sherbet hued flowers, you will be charmed. Nicotiana are evening scented, so place them where you will enjoy their rich scent at night.
Green flowering gladiola bulbs are drought tolerant and can be planted as soon as the soil warms, and after all danger of frost has passed. These traditional flowers have been filling gardens for generations, because they are so bullet-proof. Give this old-fashioned flower a twist by planting ‘Green star’ a stately, green blooming variety.
