Tall, architectural biennial or short-lived perennial with starry bell-shaped blooms loved by pollinators.
Seed Treatment
Optional: A light dusting of finely crushed horticultural sand can help with sowing tiny seeds evenly.
GA3 (Gibberellic Acid) can stimulate germination but must be used cautiously. It is not recommended unless you have experience, as overdosing can damage seeds.
Cold Stratification:
- Method: Place seeds on a moist paper towel inside a ziplock bag and refrigerate for 3–4 weeks.
- If seedlings emerge during stratification, remove immediately and plant into soil.
- You can sow directly into moist seed-starting mix, cover, and refrigerate the entire container instead.
Best Time to Sow
- Indoors: Late winter to early spring (Feb–April)
- Outdoors: Late fall (Oct–Nov) or early spring (as soon as soil is workable)
Germination Temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F) is ideal.
Germination Time: 14 to 60 days AFTER stratification
Light for Germination
Use Grow Lights 12–16 hours per day – seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover.
Post-Germination Care
- Transplant seedlings once they have 2–3 sets of true leaves
- Harden off before moving outdoors
- Space 30–45 cm apart in fertile, well-draining soil
Growing Tips
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Water moderately – do not let soil dry out completely
- Supports pollinators and can grow up to 120–150 cm tall
- Stake if grown in windy areas
Blooms: Typically in the second year (biennial behavior)
Lifespan: Biennial/perennial – allow some flowers to go to seed for self-sowing