90-100 Days to maturity. Nigella sativa. Black Cumin Seeds. Non-GMO, frost-tender annual. Also known as Black Caraway, Roman Coriander, Nutmeg Flower, Fennel Flower, Kalonji, or Nigella. It may be grown as a substitute for the spice cumin (cuminum cyminum). With lacy foliage, blue flowers, and an inflated seed pod, this herb makes a beautiful addition to any garden. It's often hailed as a "cure-all" seed due to its high antioxidant properties and ability to aid digestion, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. The seeds are commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines, lending a unique peppery, slightly bitter flavor with hints of oregano and onion. ~41,000 seeds/oz. Download Free Herb Growing Guide PDF Latin Name: Nigella sativa Hardiness Zone: Annual in zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Readily re-seeds. Days to Maturity: 90-100 Days to Germination: 10-14 Seeding Depth: 0.125 inches Plant Spacing: 6-8 inches, thin to 12 inches apart. Row Spacing: 12-15 inches Plant Height: 12-18 inches Plant Spread: 8-12 inches Plant Width: 8-12 inches Growth Habit: Upright, bushy Soil Preference: Well-draining, moderately fertile soil is best. It can tolerate poor soil, but you’ll see better growth with soil rich in organic matter. The pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–7.5). Temperature Preference: 65-75 F Light Preference: Full Sun Direct Sow: Yes, direct sow 2-3 weeks before your average last frost date. Cool spring temperatures allow for better establishment before warm summer temperatures set in. But be sure to protect from any late freezes as black cumin is a tender annual. Start Indoors: Yes, start indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Pests and Diseases: Black cumin is relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. However, like many herbs, it can be susceptible to aphids or fungal infections, especially in overly humid conditions or poorly draining soil. Keeping the plants spaced adequately and ensuring good air circulation will help minimize these issues. Black Cumin Color: Green lacey foliage with pale blue colored flowers. Black Cumin Flavor: Earthy fennel, peppery, with a hint of onion, bitterness, and thyme. Growing Non-GMO Black Cumin Herb Seeds This annual herb thrives best when sown directly outdoors in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. If you are especially mindful of the changing spring temperatures it can be beneficial to direct sow 2-3 weeks before your last spring frost date, but be sure to protect your young plants from any last freezes. Black cumin prefers cool temperatures but is tender to frost. In cooler climates, you can also start the seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost, transplanting them when the danger of frost has passed. Germination typically takes 10 to 14 days, and seeds should be planted near surface level with only a dusting of soil. Make sure to space the plants 6 to 8 inches apart, with rows spaced 12 to 15 inches apart to allow for good air circulation. When young, thin plants to 12 inches apart. Black Cumin prefers full sun and grows best in slightly alkaline to neutral, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It doesn’t demand particularly rich soil, but adding compost or organic matter can help improve growth and yield. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering—enough to keep the soil moist but never waterlogged, as it doesn't like “wet feet.” Once the seedlings are established, they can tolerate some drought. Monitor soil moisture levels and ensure the plants get plenty of sunlight. If you’re growing it in a humid environment, watch out for fungal issues, which can be avoided with proper spacing and good air circulation. Black cumin doesn’t typically suffer from many pests, but light aphid infestations can be dealt with by spraying the plants with water or using natural insecticidal soap. Black Cumin in the Herb Garden In the garden, black cumin plays various roles. Although it’s primarily grown for its seeds, it also functions well as a companion plant due to its ability to attract beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs with its delicate flowers, which help pollinate the garden and control pests like aphids. While not a typical pest control plant, its presence in the garden encourages a balanced ecosystem. It's also visually appealing, with its fine, feathery foliage and pale blue to white flowers, making it a decorative addition to any herb or vegetable garden. Harvesting Black Cumin The seeds are ready to be harvested when the flower pods turn brown and begin to dry out—this usually happens about 90 to 100 days after planting. The pods will rattle when the seeds inside are ready. To harvest, cut the seed pods off the plant, place them in a paper bag, and allow them to fully dry. Once completely dry, you can shake or break open the pods to release the seeds. Ensure the seeds are fully dried before storing them in an airtight container to prevent mold. About Black Cumin Garden Seeds While black cumin is an annual, there is a chance for natural reseeding if not all the seed pods are collected. Black cumin is native to South and Southwest Asia regions, particularly in the Middle East and parts of India. It thrives in temperate to warm climates and is quite adaptable to different soil conditions as long as the soil is well-drained. Medicinally, black cumin has been used for centuries for its health-boosting properties, believed to help with everything from digestion to immune support. One interesting fact about black cumin is its historical significance—it was found in the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, indicating its value in ancient cultures. Today, it's gaining popularity worldwide, especially in wellness communities, for its therapeutic qualities. Tips From Our Gardeners "Buy these seeds and use your harvest for medicinal or culinary uses. They produce a great return on your investment, as each plant resulting from a single seed will produce many more seeds!" - Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer Black Cumin Seeds Per Package: 1 g - Wholesale - Approximately 1,446 Seeds 0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 10,250 Seeds 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 41,000 Seeds 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 164,000 Seeds 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 656,000 Seeds Non-GMO Black Cumin seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
