Guide to growing Irish bells - Moluccella

Members of the Moluccella genus are hardy or half hardy annuals that reach from 45 to 90cm in height.

They are upright and carry minute white flowers that are covered by circular green cones.

Some of the common names for Moluccella include Irish bells, Shellflower and bells of Ireland.

How to grow Irish Bells

If you plan to grow Irish bells (and other Moluccella) outdoors from seed, then sow them on the soil surface before the last frost of spring. Irish bells prefer to grow in an ordinary soil, and can grow in either a sunny or partially shaded area of the garden.

If you plan to first grow Irish bells indoors then start about 10 weeks in advance. The seeds should be imbibed by placing the seeds (within soil) in a black plastic bag, then placing in the fridge for five or six days. Seeds should then be sown out in peat pots in the light at a temperature of 10 to 15 Celsius; they normally take about one to five weeks to germinate. Seedlings should be transplanted outside after the last frost of spring, about 30cm apart.

Caring for Irish bells in the garden

Irish bells are easy to look after; they require frequent watering and a monthly application of fertiliser. For taller varieties of Moluccella it may be necessary to stake them. If you require more Irish bells then they can be propagated by allowing to self seeds, do not take cuttings.