Ammi majus
Ammi majus · Apiaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around ammi majus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 60 to 120 cm in height
- Flowering
- July to September
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Annual, low cold hardiness
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and North Africa
Care
Exposure
Ammi majus thrives in full sun, where it develops vigorously and flowers abundantly. Give it a location with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. In very hot areas, light afternoon shade can prevent excessive drying.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in summer, keeping the soil moist but well-drained. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Avoid excess moisture that promotes rot.
Soil
Ammi appreciates light, well-drained and fairly fertile soil. Flower potting soil or a mixture of garden soil enriched with compost works very well. Overly compact or poorly drained soil can compromise its growth.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season to encourage flowering. For container growing, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks is sufficient. Reduce applications in late summer.
Pruning and cutting
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a bushier shape. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. This plant doesn't require severe pruning; simply removing dead parts is enough.
Diseases and pests
Ammi majus is generally robust. Watch for aphids and spider mites during intense dry spells. Balanced watering prevents most fungal problems. If there's excess moisture, improve air circulation around the plant.
Did you know?
Ammi majus is famous in the history of photography for accidentally participating in the discovery of photogenic properties of certain molecules. In the Middle Ages and Antiquity, Egyptians used it in cosmetics and rituals. Today, its delicate white lacy umbels make it an essential element of wildflower bouquets and minimalist floral decoration.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.