Ammi Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Ammi plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Bishop's Weed, Queen Anne's Lace, & White Lace Flower: Cultivation & Garden Use

The common names for the Half hardy annual, and Half hardy biennial Ammi plant include White lace flower, Large Bullwort, and Bishop's Weed. Do not confuse with the Queen Anne's Lace species Daucus carota.

Plants typically flower from late spring to early summer.

Photo by Jacki-Dee.

Description of Bishop's Weed

Ammi are medium sized plants that have white blooms carried on six inch wide (15 cm) umbel flower heads. Plants range in height from one to three feet (30 to 90 cm). Leaves are lance shaped. They make ideal plants for a wildflower garden.

Information on Ammi and Commonly Grown Garden Species

The Ammi plant genus consists of six species, and is a member of the ninety one genera Apiacaea family of plants. As such it is closely related to plants such as Anise, Cumin, Dill, Hemlock, Carrots and Fennel.

It is a common feature for members of this plant family to have umbel (umbrella) like inflorescence's. Another common feature of the family is that the flowers have five sepals, five stamens and five petals.

Some of the common forms of Ammi plants are:
Bishop's weed, Large Bullwort, Laceflower, Greater Ammi (Ammi majus) - Annual
Toothpickweed (Ammi visnaga) - Biennial.

Ammi majus - Bishop's Weed, White Bishop's Lace

Varieties of this annual species of Ammi plant range in height from one to four feet (30 to 120 cm). Sow seeds outdoors directly after the last frost in your area. Space from 12 to 15 inches (30 to 40 cm) apart. This plant thrives in a location with full sun, but can also be grown in a partially shaded area.

Bishop's Weed has finely divided, fern-like leaves and clusters of flowers. They bloom from mid summer through to early autumn, with white of small white flowers. It is good in mixed borders, wildflower gardens, or as a cut flower.

Ammi visnaga (Toothpick Weed)

Ammi visnaga can be grown as an annual in area with cold winters, or as a biennial in cool climates, if sown late in the year. Toothpick Weed reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm). It has fern-like leaves and carries clusters of tiny white flowers.

It prefers to grow in a location with full sun and well-drained soil. It is perfect for mixed borders, use in a wildflower garden, or even for use as a cut flower.

How to Grow Bishop's weed and Similar Ammi species

It is best to sow Ammi species such as Bishop weed on the soil surface then give them a light dusting of soil. Use a spacing of 10 to 14 inches (25 to 35 cm) for smaller species, and up to 40 inches (100 cm) apart for larger species. Do this in the early spring, before the last frost.

Bishop's Lace can grow in light shade or full sunlight. The soil should be fertile and moist.

Ammi plant requires between one and four weeks to germinate. If germinating indoors it is ideal to keep the temperature at 55 to 65°F (13 to 18°C). Grow seedlings for seven or eight weeks before putting them out in the spring.

Caring for Ammi in the garden

Ammi are is easy to look after, though they require watering in the dry spells of summer.

Be aware that the sap of Ammi plants can be dangerous, do not get it on your skin as it can react with light and cause painful skin rashes.

Common Questions

How many members does the Ammi genus have?

The Ammi genus includes about eight species.

Do members of Ammi make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Ammi, especially Ammi majus (Bishop's Weed), is popular for its delicate, lacy flowers that add lightness to plantings.

Which Ammi species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Ammi majus (Bishop's Weed) is the most commonly grown species in this genus.

Are members of the Ammi fragrant?

Ammi plants are not typically known for their fragrance.

What is the perfect location to grow Ammi?

Ammi prefers full sun and well-drained, rich soil. It can tolerate some drought.

Is Ammi invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Ammi is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Ammi from my garden?

Removal can be done by pulling or digging up the plants, ensuring to get all roots to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Ammi genus, commonly known as False Queen Anne's Lace or Bishop's Weed, consists of annual and perennial plants with delicate and lacy flower clusters. Native to the Mediterranean region, Ammi plants are appreciated for their airy and elegant appearance. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun exposure. Regular watering is important, particularly during dry periods, to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Growing Ammi is relatively easy as they are adaptable and can tolerate a variety of soil types. These plants can be propagated through seeds, and they readily self-sow in the garden. Ammi species are commonly used in cottage gardens, meadow-like settings, or as cut flowers in floral arrangements. Their delicate and lacy flower clusters add a touch of charm and ethereal beauty to the landscape, making Ammi a popular choice for gardeners seeking a romantic and whimsical feel in their gardens.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on Ammi. You may also enjoy the following garden growing guides: How to grow Ionopsidium, Matthiola Plant , and Iberis plants.