Mignonette, Garden mignonette
Reseda odorata
Family: Resedaceae
What it is like
Reseda odorata is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from June to October, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
a common weed, it also grows amongst rocks.
N. Africa - Egypt. An occasional garden escape in Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The acrid root is diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative. The seed is applied externally as a resolvent.
Acrid: Causes heat and irritation when applied to the skin.
Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Resolvent: Breaks down tumors. This might be placed under antitumor.
Other
Rating: 2
An essential oil is obtained from the flowers. Used in perfumery. 1200 Kg of flowers yields 350gr absolute. A yellow dye is obtained from the plant.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Easily grown in any well-drained neutral to slightly alkaline soil in a sunny position or in some shade if the summers are long and hot. The flowers are very fragrant. Plants are sometimes cultivated for the essential oil in their flowers. A good plant for bees and butterflies, it is also an important food plant for the caterpillars of many species of butterfly.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in the spring and only lightly cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 2 weeks. An autumn sowing usually succeeds in areas where winter temperatures do not fall below about -10°c.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist