Veronicastrum virginicum f. albiflorum | Culver's/Psychic Root

Planting guides for Annuals, Biennials, Perennials, Shrub & Vine seeds can be found at: 

https://bloomoutlet.com/seed-guides/ 

Please read both the seed guide and this plant specific sowing instructions. If you are unsure of the best way to germinate the seeds, DO NOT SOW ALL THE SEEDS. Keep some in case the germination method you use doesn’t work. 

VERONICASTRUM VIRGINICUM F. ALBIFLORUM - Culver’s Root, Psychic Root 

Seed Treatment (Stratification)

  1. Cold Stratification Required

    • Mix seeds with moist sand or a damp paper towel in a sealed plastic bag.

    • Store in the refrigerator (35–40°F / 2–5°C) for 30–60 days to break dormancy.

    • Check regularly to ensure the seeds remain moist but not moldy.

Planting Instructions

  1. Sowing Indoors (Recommended)

    • Use a well-draining seed-starting mix.

    • Lightly press seeds into the surface of the soil without covering them (they need light to germinate).

    • Mist soil gently to keep it evenly moist.

    • Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F (18–24°C) for germination.

    • Germination takes 3–6 weeks, but some seeds may take longer.

  2. Outdoor Sowing (Fall Sowing Preferred)

    • Direct sow seeds in late fall before winter to allow natural cold stratification.

    • Sow on the surface of well-prepared soil in a partially shaded to sunny location.

    • Keep soil moist until germination occurs in spring.

  3. Transplanting Seedlings

    • Once seedlings have 2–3 true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.

    • Space plants 18–24 inches apart in a moist, well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade.

Care After Germination

  • Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the first year.

  • Once established, White Culver’s Root is drought-tolerant but prefers moist conditions.

  • This plant grows 3–6 feet tall, so it benefits from staking or support in windy areas.

  • Deadhead to encourage more blooms or leave seed heads for wildlife interest.

Botanical Name: Veronicastrum virginicum f. Albiflorum

Syn: Leptandra 

Common Name: Culver’s Root, Psychic Root

Type: Perennial

Flower Color: White. Sometimes light blue. 

Flowering Season: July to September

Plant Height: 5 ft ( 175 cm)

Light Requirements: Full Sun, Semi-Shade

Water Requirements: Average, Moist

Soil Requirements: Average

USDA Zones: 3-8

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