Honeywort
Cerinthe major is an annual plant from the borage family (Boraginaceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region, can reach a height of up to 60 centimetres and, depending on when it is sown, can flower from June to October.
The plant shown here is said to be Cerinthe major “Purpurascens”. Whether this refers to the subspecies Cerinthe major subsp. purpurascens native to Spain or a cultivar was not mentioned on the seed packet.
Characteristics & Description
Height, habit: 30 to 60 centimeters, herbaceous plant
Life cycle: Annual
Poisonous: Yes, all parts of the plant are slightly poisonous.
Origin: Mediterranean region (southern Europe, West Asia, North Africa) (distribution map)
USDA zone: 7 (10.4 °F/-12 °C)
Botany
Name: Cerinthe major
Family: Boraginaceae
Categories: Blue & Purple Flowers | Garden plants | Red & Pink Flowers |
