Quantity 100 Seeds

Germination approx. 14 days at 18ºC

Black Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum)

Propagation

Black sesame is propagated by seed. Direct sowing is recommended once the soil has warmed up in spring. Seeds should be sown in rows with adequate spacing, as the plants require light and warmth to thrive.

Difficulty

Medium. While sesame is relatively undemanding, it requires warm temperatures and well-drained soil to germinate and mature successfully.

Origin

Likely originating in the Indian subcontinent or East Africa, sesame is one of the oldest cultivated oilseed crops in the world.

Flowering Period

From mid to late summer, depending on sowing time and climatic conditions.

Annual or Perennial?

Annual in temperate climates; in frost-free regions, it may behave as a short-lived perennial.

Forage Plant for Bees

Yes. Sesame flowers produce nectar that attracts pollinators, especially bees.

Cultivation and Care

Sesame prefers full sun and thrives in loose, sandy-loamy soils with good drainage. It is drought-tolerant once established but should be watered regularly during early growth. Fertilization is usually unnecessary in fertile soils. It is sensitive to waterlogging.

Hardiness Zone

USDA Zones 10–12. In cooler zones, it must be cultivated as an annual.

Growth Height

50–100 cm, sometimes more under optimal conditions.

Suitable for Pot Cultivation

Yes, with sufficient root space and warmth.

Traditional Use

Folk Medicine & Oral Tradition

In traditional Indian and Chinese medicine, black sesame seeds are valued for their nourishing, tonifying, and regenerative properties. They are believed to support kidney and liver function, promote hair growth, and delay signs of aging.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

Black sesame plays a role in rituals and traditional ceremonies across Asia. In East Asian cultures, it symbolizes vitality and longevity.

Ethnobotanical Perspective

Black sesame has been cultivated and used for thousands of years across Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Its resilience and rich nutritional profile made it an important crop in early civilizations.

Side Effects

Generally well tolerated. Due to its high oil content, large quantities may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. Rarely, sesame allergy may occur.