Mixed colour Nigella damascena
Nigella seeds are widely used as a spice and condiment in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. They can be dry-roasted and used to give a smokey, nutty flavor to curries, vegetables, and beans. While the variety Nigella sativa is more commonly used in cooking, the more orimental version Nigella damascena provides anintense, nutmeg-like flavour when finely ground. This spicy flavour is delicious in condiments and sweets. However, only ever eat the seeds in small quantities, as they contain the toxic alkaloid damascenin.
Germination
Sow direct in early spring or in trays in late winter.
Fill your tray with seed compost. Sprinkle the seeds thinly over the surface and cover with a thin layer of compost.
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into another tray about 5cm apart.Approximate minimum seed count per pack
1/2 teaspoon. May contain some chaff and husk from the seed pods