Clasping Coneflower Flower Seeds

Sowing: Plant directly into the soil in late fall, ensuring the seeds are pressed lightly onto the surface as they require light for germination. For spring planting, mix the seeds with damp sand and refrigerate for 30 days before sowing. Maintain light moisture in the soil until germination, typically occurring within 2-3 weeks. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the spring planting date. Once seedlings have developed several leaves, transplant them into the garden.

Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they establish themselves. This plant grows rapidly and requires minimal care, thriving best in moderately moist soil. While mature plants can withstand heat and drought, they prefer consistent moisture and may benefit from occasional watering during dry spells. Deadhead flowers regularly to prolong the blooming period. Additionally, this plant attracts butterflies and may self-sow.

Harvesting: When cutting flowers, select stems with freshly opened blooms. Remove any foliage that will be submerged in water, and promptly place them in a vase filled with water.

Seed Saving: Once the flower petals have dropped, the central cone will start forming seeds. Harvest the seed heads when the stem below the cone starts to dry and turn brown. Dry the seed heads away from direct sunlight, then gently rub the heads to separate the small seeds from the stems. Store the cleaned seeds in a cool, dry place.

Latin Name: Rudbeckia amplexicaulis
Species Origin: Native to the United States
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height: 61 cm
Color: Red, Yellow
Blooming Season: Late Summer, Early Fall
Uses: Pollinator Attractor, Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant