Family: Lythraceae
Scientific name: Lawsonia inermis
Common name: Henna
Origin: Middle East

Henna has been used since 3500 B.C and has even been found in ancient sarcophaguses in Egypt. The plant probably originated somewhere in the Middle East and has likely been distributed by humans towards Northern Africa and India. Especially in these cultures the henna pigment is well known for colouring nails, hands and hair. For example, blond hair can be dyed red, brown into maroon and grey into orange. The plant grows as a shrub and in autumn, the green leaves can be harvested to dry and grind. By adding lemon juice to the ground leaves a paste is formed that you can use to colour with.

Sowing description: Sow seeds superficially in sowing mix and cover with a plastic or glass cover. Place everything in the fridge for 1 or 2 weeks and then let the seeds germinate in a warm and light spot at 25-30 degrees Celsius. Keep the soil constantly moistened. Germination usually occurs after a few weeks, but it can also take a few months.

Sowing time: Whole year
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 12 degrees Celsius