MOLUCCELLA

Description

The luck of the Irish flows freely in Moluccella! Commonly known as Bells-of-Ireland or shellflower, Moluccella is a vivid green annual (or short-lived perennial) herb that is native to Western Asia. Although its common name might suggest otherwise, this plant’s roots have nothing to do with the Emerald Isle. Its origins are actually in Cyprus, Syria, Iraq and the Caucasian region between the Black and Caspian Seas. The plant's only real association with Ireland is its prominent use during St. Patrick’s day celebrations—mostly due to Moluccella's mesmerizing green hues, which are an emblem of good luck.

The plant’s erect stems grow up to 101 cm in height, feature rounded, hairless leaves and are covered in tiny thorns. Its flowering spikes are decorated with bell-shaped, green calyxes (hence the common name Bells-of-Ireland) that are tightly clustered. Each calyx surrounds a small, white flower that is usually fragrant. In many cases, the calyxes are considered as the plants’ flowers, since the white flowers are often not seen.

A member of the Lamiaceae family, the genus contains only four species, and only one of these is commonly grown. The most popular species is Moluccella laevis, and its cultivation can be traced back to the 1500s. Moluccella are also closely related to such ornamental and culinary plants as sage (Salvia), catmint (Nepeta), thyme (Thymus) and lavender (Lavandula).

Moluccella has become a favorite filler flower among designers for use in arrangements—especially wedding bouquets and centerpieces—not only for its standout shape, but also for its symbolism of good luck. It also works incredibly well when dried, although its green hues will shift to a cream color when the drying process is complete. Aside from its use as a cut flower, Moluccella also makes a stunning garden ornamental, adding wonderful texture and vertical height in a mixed border or container garden.

Colors: Green

Special Care

Select straight, sturdy stems with a majority of its bells open. The “bells” should also be turgid and well formed. Avoid stems with any bruising or damage, especially on the calyces. The green color of the stem should be bright and uniform throughout.

When processing, strip foliage that falls below the water line. Recut the stems about 2.5 cm at an angle (45-degrees) and hydrate them in room temperature water mixed with a commercial floral preservative for at least two hours before storage or use in floral work. Although not required, stems can be recut under running water or in a bowl of clean water. Cutting under water may reduce the risk of air pockets forming at the stems’ base and allows the flowers to absorb water right away. Use caution (or better yet, gloves!) when handling stems, since they contain small thorns that can irritate the skin. As Moluccella is a phototroph, keep stored stems away from strong side lights to prevent them from bending to follow light source(s).

Moluccella is suitable for drying. Hang the stems upside down in small groupings in a cool, dark area with good air ventilation.

Fun Facts:

• The genus name is derived from the Moluccas (Indonesian islands), a native growing region of the plant. Its specific epithet means smooth, most likely in reference to the plant’s texture.

• Moluccella is self-seeding and grows on square stalks that normally reach 60–92 cm in height.

• Moluccella has a unique form; its plants bloom into ornate spikes that are covered in bell-shaped, green calyxes. Each calyx encases a small, white flower that is usually fragrant. In many cases, the calyxes are considered as the plants’ flowers, since the white flowers are often not seen.

• Although its name would suggest otherwise, Moluccella has nothing to do with Ireland (in terms of origins). However, due to its festive green hues, this plant has become a staple in St. Patrick’s Day arrangements. This also explains the common name of Bells-of-Ireland, referencing a land rich in greenery (and the bell-like shape of their calyxes).

• Common relatives to Moluccella are mint, sage and bee balm.

• Moluccella is used to symbolize good luck; no wonder it’s a favorite during St. Patrick’s Day! Their standout green color is also an emblem of wealth.

• Working well in both fresh and dry arrangements, Moluccella is favored by floral designers as a versatile accent flower that provides wonderful texture. However, when dried, Moluccella typically does not retain its green color; as time passes, the dried plant will start turning a light beige color.

• Moluccella is phototropic, meaning its stems will bend to follow sources of light.

• Moluccella stems often feature tiny thorns that can irritate the skin. For this reason, floral designers typically use gloves when working with these plants.