Sweet White Mignonette Reseda odorata Flower Seeds 325 Seeds
Despite their small and unassuming look, these flowers are cherished for their unique spicy-sweet aroma. You can enjoy them in your garden, in patio pots, or in window boxes to let their scent drift into your home. Attracts bees, birds, & butterflies.
Back in Victorian England, this flower was a staple in almost every cottage garden. While it may not be the most visually appealing plant, it won hearts with its delightful, strong fragrance. Traditionally, the essential oil extracted from this plant has been used in making perfumes. The name "mignonette" translates to "little darling" in French, a term coined by Josephine, Napoleon's wife. Legend has it that the famous emperor brought this plant back from one of his trips to Egypt as a present for her.
Common Names: Garden Mignonette, Common Mignonette
Latin Name: Reseda odorata
Species Origin: Introduced US Flower
Type: Garden Flowers
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 25,000
Stratification: No Stratification
Germination Ease: No Stratification
Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun
Height: 10 Inches
Color: Cream
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer
Sowing: In late fall, directly sow sweet mignonette seeds by pressing them into the soil's surface since this plant requires light for germination. If you're planting in spring, mix the seeds with some moist sand and store them in the fridge for 30 days before planting. Keep the soil lightly moist until they germinate, which typically takes about 7-14 days. Avoid trying to transplant them.
Growing: Make sure to water the seedlings regularly until they’re established, and keep an eye on weeds. Once mature, these plants can handle slightly dry soil, but they really prefer it moist and will appreciate some extra watering during dry spells. To enjoy the longest blooming period, deadhead the flowers and pinch back the plant to promote bushier growth. This plant is great for attracting butterflies while keeping bees away, and it does well in containers.
Harvesting: When you're ready to cut flowers, pick stems that have just opened up. Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water, and place them in water right away.
Seed Saving: After the flowers have faded, the Reseda odorata seeds will form in the dried flower head. Collect the seeds as soon as they start to change color and can be easily shaken loose. Store the seeds in a cool, dry spot.
