Bishop's Flower
Bishop’s Flower, a graceful annual with delicate white umbels, is beloved by flower farmers and cottage gardeners alike. It brings an airy elegance to garden beds and is a staple in cut flower arrangements thanks to its long stems and lace-like texture.
Quick Facts
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Botanical name: Ammi majus
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Common names: Bishop’s Flower, False Queen Anne’s Lace, Laceflower
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Plant type: Annual
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Days to maturity: 65–75 days
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Height: 36–48 inches
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Sun exposure: Full sun
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Hardiness zones: USDA 2–11 (grown as annual)
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Spacing: 9–12 inches apart
When to Plant
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Spring planting: Sow outdoors after last frost, or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
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Fall planting (mild climates): Sow in late summer to early fall for earlier spring blooms.
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Germination time: 7–14 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C)
How to Plant
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Site selection: Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
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Soil preparation: Loosen soil and amend with compost if needed.
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Sowing depth: 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep; lightly press seeds into soil.
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Thinning: Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin to 9–12 inches apart for good air circulation.
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Watering: Water consistently, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
Growing Tips
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Bishop’s Flower prefers cooler weather; provide afternoon shade in very hot zones.
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Pinch young plants when 6–8 inches tall to encourage branching and more blooms.
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Deadhead to extend the blooming season, or leave some flowers to self-seed.
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Use flower supports in windy areas or if growing en masse for cutting.
Harvesting
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For cut flowers, harvest when umbels are fully open but before seeds begin forming.
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Use clean snips and harvest in the early morning for best vase life.
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Vase life: 5–7 days; condition stems in fresh water before arranging.
Companion Plants
Pair with cosmos, bachelor’s buttons, snapdragons, or ornamental grasses for a soft, romantic look. Attracts beneficial insects like lacewings and hoverflies to the garden.
Why Grow Bishop’s Flower?
This elegant filler flower is perfect for bouquets and garden borders. It grows quickly, thrives in poor soils, and adds natural charm to both wildflower meadows and formal arrangements.