LOVE-IN-A-MIST

(Nigella damascena), an annual herbaceous plant of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). Native to the Mediterranean region, it is now grown in gardens throughout temperate regions of the world. It grows 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 inches) tall and has lacelike leaves. The delicate flowers, blue or white and about 4 cm across, are set within a circlet of threadlike green bracts. Pinks and purples are seen in certain hybrids. The globular fruit is sometimes tinged with purple.