Mignonette 'Grandiflora'

Once a staple of the Victorian scented garden, Reseda odorata 'Grandiflora' is grown primarily for its intoxicating, sweet fragrance which is often compared to a mix of violet and raspberry. While the flower spikes are not traditionally showy—bearing small, fringed, yellowish-white blossoms with prominent orange-red anthers—their scent is powerful enough to perfume an entire patio. Growing to around 30-40cm, it has a somewhat sprawling habit that makes it perfect for the edges of paths or in pots near doors and windows where the fragrance can be appreciated. In the UK, it is a hardy annual that prefers cooler summer conditions and moist, well-drained soil. It is best sown in situ from March to May. To maintain a compact shape and encourage more flower spikes, pinch out the leading shoots when the plants are young. It is also an excellent plant for attracting bees, which are drawn to its rich nectar.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Alkaline to neutral, moist soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.