Circaea lutetiana ENCHANTER'S NIGHTSHADE (20 seeds)

Enchanter's Nightshade, also known as witch's herb or Circaea lutetiana in Latin, is a perennial herbaceous European plant from the Onagraceae family often found in gardens. It typically measures 30 cm in height.

The leaves are wide and rounded with smooth edges. They are generally opposite on the stem, dark green in color, and have a soft or slightly downy texture.

Its flowers are small, discreet, and grouped in panicle-shaped inflorescences. They are white, sometimes slightly pinkish, with four thin petals. Flowering generally spans from June to September.

Enchanter's Nightshade seeds are downy, shaped like water droplets, and measure only 4 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

Traditionally, its young shoots and leaves are used to prepare infusions or decoctions to relieve respiratory disorders thanks to its expectorant properties. Furthermore, this plant is renowned for its healing virtues, helping to accelerate the recovery of minor wounds or skin inflammations.

Commonly called the "Circaea of Lutetia," it is used in witchcraft for its protective and magical properties. It is traditionally employed to ward off bad influences and to strengthen the protection of places and individuals. Some practitioners also use it to attract luck or to enhance the power of spells related to wisdom and knowledge.

The plant can be incorporated into sachets, burned as incense, or placed in the environment to benefit from its magical virtues. Its presence in a ritual is often associated with purification and defense against negative energies.
Do not consume for psychoactive or medicinal effects; cultivate solely for the preservation of the botanical species.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The period for sowing Enchanter's Nightshade should begin as early as March.
• Sow the seeds in groups of 3 or 4 in small pots filled with fine potting soil at a depth of 5 millimeters.
• Stratify them naturally as recommended, or artificially in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 weeks.
• Place the culture in a greenhouse to activate growth.
• Germination will generally begin 15 days after stratification.
• Finally, transplant the seedlings into the garden in a semi-shaded spot or into larger pots.

- Type of Earth / Soil:

Circaea lutetiana prefers moist, fertile, light soil rich in organic matter. A potting soil amended with compost or a universal potting mix is perfectly suitable to ensure healthy growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It enjoys full sun or partial shade. A sunny location promotes dense foliage and abundant flowering, but it can also tolerate partial shade.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Its hardiness is good, but it appreciates moderate temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. It can withstand light frosts, but below -10°C, protection is advised.

- Watering / Water Requirements:

Watering must be regular. In summer, it is preferable to water more frequently, but without excess to avoid stagnant water.

- Multiplication:

Circaea lutetiana reproduces mainly by seeds, by semi-hardwood stem cuttings, or by layering.

- Pests:

It can be attacked by aphids, scale insects, or spider mites. The presence of these pests may manifest as a discoloration of the foliage.