Growing Conditions: Full sun to part shade in dry to medium soil
Size: Height 1-2 ft, Spread 1-3 ft
Blooms: July 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 various butterflies, moths, bees and wasps, including the wavy-lined emerald moth (larvae), the monarch butterfly (adult), the rusty patched bumble bee and sweat bees (Halictidae).
Pests & Diseases: Minor issue of rust.
Mature Seed Color: Dark brown
Collect seed heads from October to November when the seed heads are brown and seeds are still present (have not fallen out).
Collection & Cleaning Tips: Shake out heads and rub them on a screen. Note that the seeds are white with a gray center. Dispose of heads and use cleaning screens to separate seed from seed head 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.
Doug McGrady