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:

A Legend of Mythology and Botanical History

Enchanter's nightshade owes its name to the famous sorceress Circe from Greek mythology, bearing witness to a unique place in the history of plants associated with ancient tales.

The Mysterious Folklore of the Undergrowth

Historically nicknamed "witches' herb", this forest plant is an integral part of traditional European folklore.
It is studied in ethnobotany for the tales and protection legends that once surrounded its presence in ancient countryside rituals.

Botanical Preservation and Biodiversity

Beyond its rich folklore, this collector's variety is cultivated today primarily for landscaping shaded areas and safeguarding local biodiversity.

- 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.

This article was written by Julien on 07/09/2026.