Black Cumin

Not to be confused with Nigella sativa (also called black cumin), Bunium persicum is a sought-after perennial herb related to caraway. In the UK, it is often grown as a specialty crop by enthusiasts of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. It is a slender, umbelliferous plant reaching 40-60cm, with finely divided, thread-like leaves similar to those of a carrot. It produces clusters of small white flowers in midsummer. The plant is primarily grown for its small, dark, curved seeds which are harvested in late summer. These seeds have a complex, smoky, earthy flavour that is much more intense than standard cumin. It is hardy (H4) but requires a warm, sunny site and very well-drained, sandy soil to thrive. It can be slow to establish from seed and is often grown in deep pots to protect its taproot. While challenging, the harvest of 'Kala Jeera' is highly atmospheric and rewarding for the culinary gardener.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.