Blue Shrimp Plant Cerinthe major 20 Seeds

Cerinthe major, commonly known as honeywort or blue shrimp plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, Cerinthe major is valued for its attractive foliage and unique tubular flowers, which make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens.

Here are some key features of Cerinthe major:

Appearance: Honeywort is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters). It has succulent, gray-green leaves that are often speckled with white spots or edged with a purplish hue. The most distinctive feature of Cerinthe major is its pendant clusters of tubular flowers, which hang gracefully from the stems. The flowers are typically blue or purple in color, although cultivars with pink or white flowers are also available.

Habitat: Cerinthe major thrives in sunny to partially shaded locations with well-drained soil. It is tolerant of drought once established and can also tolerate coastal conditions. Honeywort is often grown in borders, rock gardens, or containers, where its unique appearance adds texture and interest to the landscape.

Cultural Uses: Honeywort is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers. It is valued for its long-lasting blooms, which appear from late spring to early summer and continue into the fall. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, making Cerinthe major a beneficial plant for supporting local ecosystems.

Growth and Care: Cerinthe major is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering during the growing season, although it can tolerate short periods of drought. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding, although some gardeners may appreciate the self-sowing nature of honeywort.

Propagation: Honeywort can be propagated from seeds, which are typically sown directly in the garden in the spring after the last frost date. Seeds can also be started indoors several weeks before the last frost date and transplanted outdoors once the weather has warmed. Cerinthe major readily self-seeds in the garden, producing new plants in subsequent growing seasons.

Overall, Cerinthe major is a charming and versatile plant that adds beauty and pollinator activity to gardens and landscapes. Its unique foliage and flowers make it a standout choice for gardeners seeking a distinctive addition to their outdoor spaces.

Growing Instructions for the Blue Shrimp Plant

1. Soak the seeds for 12 hours. 2. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Use a sterile seed starter mix, if available. It prevents soil fungi from damaging the seeds and the seedlings. If not available, then make a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 3. Put the soil in a pot. 4. Sow the seeds ¼ of an inch deep. 4. Water the seeds. The seeds sprout in 7-10 days.