White mignonette (Reseda alba)
Care, watering, light and tips for White mignonette on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Resedaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About White mignonette
Reseda alba, commonly known as White Mignonette, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Resedaceae family, valued for its spikes of delicate, fragrant white flowers. Its elongated and dense inflorescences, which can reach 60-80 cm (24-31 inches) in height, make it ideal for borders, cottage gardens, or as part of a wildflower meadow. Its subtle fragrance makes it an excellent choice for attracting pollinators and beautifying any sunny corner of the garden.
Native range
Mediterranean region and Middle East
Care tips
Reseda alba thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering. It prefers well-drained, moderately fertile, and slightly alkaline soils; avoid heavy, clayey soils that can retain too much moisture. Watering should be regular but moderate, allowing the top layer of the soil to dry out between waterings, and it is crucial to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A common mistake is planting it in partial shade or in very nitrogen-rich soils, which can result in lush foliage but poor flowering.
How to save a dying White mignonette
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves, soft stems, no blooms or premature flower drop. 🌿
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, remove from water. If dry, water lightly and move to partial shade.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is fatal; its roots rot quickly. Also intense direct sun in summer.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. With advanced root rot, it's harder, but not impossible.