Growing Conditions: Sun to light shade in average to dry soil
Size: Height 2-5 ft, Spread 1-2 ft
Blooms: August to September
Landscape Use: Meadow, naturalized area. Tip – Prune back by ½ to ⅓ in mid-spring to reduce height and increase bloom.
Habitat Value: Supports a vast array of specialist bees, pollinators, host insects, and bird species, including the Aster mining bee (specialist), the eight-spotted miner bee (specialist), the hairy-belted miner bee (specialist); the wavy-lined emerald moth (host), the goldenrod hooded owlet moth (host); flower flies (Syrphidae) and tachinid flies.
Pests & Diseases: Rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot
Mature Seed Color: Tan/yellow
Use a brown bag to collect seeds from August to September when the seed heads have turned brown and the pappus (tiny hairs in the shape of a parachute that aid in wind dispersal) is fluffy. Clip seed heads and place upside down in the paper bag.
Collection & Cleaning Tips: Pinch pappus between thumb and index fingers and pull to release seeds from flower bract material. Remove as much pappus as possible. Use seed cleaning screens to separate seeds from plant material.
Store clean, dry seeds in a refrigerator (40°F) in a sealed glassine envelope.
Germination Requirements: These seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate — a minimum of 30-60 days exposed to temperatures in the range of 40°F and below. Plant in moist soil. Sow outdoors in pots November through February.
