Overview
Bunium bulbocastanum is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Bunium, part of the Apiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Bunium bulbocastanum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe and Africa Asia.
About
Bunium bulbocastanum is a scarce native species, primarily located in limited regions of England. This plant reaches a height of approximately 60 cm and features slender, branched stems adorned with leafy foliage, culminating in delicate umbels of white flowers. It is cultivated for its small, edible tubers, as well as its seeds, which are known as black cumin, and its finely divided leaves that can serve as a substitute for parsley.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Bunium
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Bunium bulbocastanum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, Africa Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bunium bulbocastanum
- Cultivation
- Found naturally in grassy areas on dry chalk, especially where disturbed. Prefers well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in a sunny spot. Seedlings need open ground to develop but once mature will thrive in meadows
- Pruning
- No pruning required. Can cut down dead stems in early spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, or by division of large clumps
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Bunium bulbocastanum?
Found naturally in grassy areas on dry chalk, especially where disturbed. Prefers well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in a sunny spot. Seedlings need open ground to develop but once mature will thrive in meadows.
Where is the best place to plant Bunium bulbocastanum?
Bunium bulbocastanum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Bunium bulbocastanum need?
Bunium bulbocastanum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Bunium bulbocastanum?
No pruning required. Can cut down dead stems in early spring.
How big does Bunium bulbocastanum grow?
Bunium bulbocastanum reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Bunium bulbocastanum hardy in the UK?
Bunium bulbocastanum has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Bunium bulbocastanum?
Propagate by seed, or by division of large clumps.