Chernushka Damask – Nigella damascena L.

Another Russian name is “the girl in the greenery.” The threshing of black cherry seeds (Kalyndzhi) is described in the Old Testament. Black seeds produce a strong pleasant odor, so they are used as an aromatic seasoning for a variety of dishes.

The plant contains an essential oil that can be used in perfumery. Use is similar to a blackberry seeded. It is the most decorative among the blacks, is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. In the leaves of Damascus black cherries, up to 430 mg% of vitamin C is found.