Sweet North Africa
Better known as Ameliorata or Mignonette, this sweet smelling flower can trace its origins to the Maghreb. Though better suited for the garden, you can also cut the stems and plant them for indoor use during the winter months. It first appeared on European shores in 1750 where it quickly became a favourite. Today, there are three varieties that bloom during the July and September months and are most likely to be found in damp terrain.
Like Fine Vine
The Grape Hyacinth or Muscari armeniacum is the late bloomer of the family. Its blue cobalt flowers come to fruition in April. There are about 50 species of the bulbous plant with the Grape Hyacinth being the most common. Though it is famous for the colour it brings to the Keukenhof Gardens in Holland, the plant originates from the Mediterranean region where it first established its roots. It is happiest in sunny areas with permeable soil.
The Black Star
The Black Cumin flower is also curiously referred to as ‘Love in the Mist’. It can trace its origins back to Biblical times (garnering a mention in the Bible as Fitch) and to the Middle East and North Africa. This exquisite plant is fragrant as much as medicinal. The seeds are known to be used for liver disease and digestive discomfort by the peoples of the region. The plant is sturdy and requires a lot of sun to grow.
Shrub Med
A crowning colourful glory of eastern Mediterranean lands, the Aubrieta is also found in Asia Minor and the Balkans. The plant is a mainstay of many a garden throughout the region. With 15 different species, it mostly comes in shades of violet, blue and red, though the pinks are the rarest and most sought-after. Preferring permeable soil and sunny skies, the flowers bloom in April and May, giving a burst of life to all environs.
