Nigella hispanica, commonly known as Spanish fennel flower, is an annual or biennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, including Portugal, Spain, and France, where it thrives in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It typically grows up to 2 feet tall and features finely divided, feathery foliage. The plant is known for its distinctive ornamental flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer and exhibit a range of colors from blue to white, often with a hint of purple. The flowers are followed by interesting balloon-shaped seed pods that are also prized for their decorative quality.

Spanish fennel flower is valued for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to any garden focused on supporting local ecosystems. It is often used in border plantings, cottage gardens, and as a cut flower due to its unique appearance. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-care plants. However, it can self-seed prolifically, which may be considered a problem in some gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0