NEW FOR 2025! Not to be at all confused with the ornamental Nigellas (damascene, papillosa, and orientalis), the seeds of which are possibly toxic. This is the somewhat mysterious seasoning that goes by a long list of misleading names, including “black cumin” (it is not cumin, or at all related), “black caraway” (not caraway, nor related), “fennel flower’ (not!), “nutmeg flower” (no relation), “Roman coriander” (absolutely not in any sense), “black onion seed” (at least looks like it, but not), and kalonji or charnushka (which may be perfectly accurate, but are without meaning to me). The seeds of ‘Culinary Nigella’ are usually toasted or warmed to release their aromatic oils, then they may be used in breads, curries, dressings, on root vegetables, squash, and stir fry. Indian naan is often flavored with nigella, and even bagels can be topped with nigella before toasting. The plant isn’t much of an ornamental, as the petals are small, short lived, and are white to pale blue. Best to direct seed these in cool spring soil (or in autumn for mild winter zones), and thin to 12” apart. Seeds are held in sealed capsules, unlike the ornamental nigellas, which open when ripe.

Oregon Tilth Certified Organic Seed!