SHELL FLOWER

also called Bells Of Ireland (Molucella laevis), plant with leafy spikes of cuplike green calyxes surrounding small, white, fragrant corollas within. The flowers are two-lipped and tubular, typical of the mint family (Lamiaceae), order Lamiales. The shell flower is native to western Asia and is extensively grown as a garden curiosity. The spikes are borne on stems nearly 1 m (3 feet) tall.