Seed Treatment:
• Cold stratify seeds for 42 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F) in the refrigerator.
• Place seeds in a sealed bag with moist sand, vermiculite, or paper towel.
• If seedlings emerge early, remove and plant them right away.
Best Time to Sow:
• Outdoors: Late fall or early spring.
• Indoors: 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost, with cold stratification beforehand.
Optimum Germination Temperature:
• Day: 70–75°F (21–24°C)
• Keep consistently warm and humid for best results.
Germination Time:
• Up to 60 days.
Sowing Instructions:
• Sow seeds about 6 mm (¼ inch) deep in moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Lightly cover with fine soil or vermiculite—light is not required for germination.
• Keep soil evenly moist (not soggy) and cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap.
Light Requirements:
• Bright light during germination is helpful but not essential.
• Once sprouted, grow in full sun for strong stems and better flowering.
Soil Requirements:
• Prefers light, sandy or loamy, well-drained soil.
• Avoid heavy or compacted soil that retains excess water.
Post-Germination Care:
• Remove cover once seedlings appear.
• Transplant when they have 2–3 sets of true leaves.
• Harden off by gradually introducing seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
Growing Tips:
• Native North American perennial with tall spikes of purple or white flowers.
• Blooms from top to bottom in mid-to-late summer.
• Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
• Excellent as a cut flower and for vertical interest in gardens.
• Low-maintenance and deer-resistant.
• In fall, let seed heads dry for reseeding or feeding birds—or cut back spent stalks.
Plant this stunning perennial for beauty, biodiversity, and lasting performance in your sunny garden!