Shoo-Fly Plant

(Nicandra physalodes) A hard-to-find and very unique ornamental annual. In average garden soil it grows very quickly to 4 feet tall and wide, in poor or dry soil it can be much smaller. Large, lush medium-green leaves speckled with black hairs especially when young, and beautiful periwinkle blue cup-shaped flowers with white centers. Reseeds readily, but can easily be controlled by pulling. Long-lived seeds, I’ve had seeds that were 20+ years old germinate readily. A long-time personal favorite. Reputed to repel flies.