Rampion mignonette
Reseda phyteuma
Family: Resedaceae
What it is like
Reseda phyteuma is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, 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): 0.3
Where it is found
Cultivated or disturbed ground.
C. and S. Europe to W. Asia and N. Africa. Naturalized in Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves - cooked. Used as a pot-herb.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
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. A good plant for bees and butterflies.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in the spring and only just cover the seed. In areas where winter temperatures do not fall below -10c, an autumn sowing usually succeeds.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist