GREAT CONEFLOWER SEEDS

This rare coneflower has GIANT blooms! The first time you see one of these flowers, it makes you look again because it is almost unbelievably large. This perennial is native to the southern states but can be grown in gardens as far north as Minnesota with winter protection.
These great coneflower seeds for sale grow unique plants with very large, bluish-green leaves and yellow daisy-like flowers. The genus name "Rudbeckia" of Rudbeckia maxima honors a family of renowned scientists and professors, the Rudbecks of Sweden, who taught Carl Linnaeus at the University of Uppsula. The species name "amplexicaulis" means "stem-clasping," in reference to the growth of the leaves.

HOW TO GROW

Sowing: Direct sow these great coneflower seeds for sale in the spring, pressing into the surface of the soil since this plant needs light to germinate. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. The seeds can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outdoors. Keep seedlings lightly moist, and transplant them as soon as they have developed several leaves.

Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they become established. This plant grows very quickly and needs little care, though it grows best in moist soil. Mature plants tolerate heat as well as some drought, but grow best with occasional watering in dry weather. Deadhead for the longest blooming period. Mature plants can be divided. This plant attracts butterflies, and may self-seed.

Harvesting: For cut flowers, choose stems with flowers that have just opened. Strip the foliage that will fall below the water level, and place in water immediately.

Seed Saving: After the flower petals fall from the head, the center cone will begin to develop seed. Remove the seed heads as soon as the stem beneath the cone begins to turn dry and brown. Spread the seed heads out to dry away from direct sunlight, then separate the small seeds from the stems by rubbing them lightly. Store the cleaned seed in a dry, cool place.