Standing Cypress Seeds Ipomopsis rubra .30gr Approx 150 Seeds
Originating from the southern United States, these vibrant scarlet flowers are highly appealing to hummingbirds. While it naturally thrives in the South, it can also be successfully cultivated in northern gardens.
Belonging to the phlox family, the standing cypress got its common name due to the subtle similarity of its leaves to those of the cypress tree. This plant flourishes in the wild across the southern parts of the United States, thriving in dry sandy soil and even gravel. The striking scarlet flowers are particularly known for their allure to hummingbirds.
Common Names: Scarlet Gilia
Latin Name: Ipomopsis rubra
Species Origin: Native Wildflower of the US
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Biennial
USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 23,000
Stratification: No Stratification Required
Germination Ease: No Stratification Needed
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height: 60 Inches
Color: White, Red
Bloom Season: Early Summer Blooms, Late Summer Blooms
Sowing: Plant directly in the fall, placing the seeds just beneath the soil surface. For spring planting, begin the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last frost; position them just below the surface in a flat filled with a sandy soil mix. Maintain the soil temperature between 65-70 degrees F; germination should take place within 15-30 days. Once the soil warms up, transplant the seedlings as soon as possible, as they develop a long tap root that does not respond well to disturbance. Grouping them together will help support the growing stalks. Additionally, seedlings can be initiated in late summer and moved in late fall for blooming the following summer.
Growing: This plant thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soil and is quite drought-resistant; poorly draining or overly moist soil can lead to root rot and other diseases. Being a biennial, it typically forms a low rosette in its first year and a flowering stalk in its second; the tall spikes may sprawl and might require support or staking. Cutting off the spent flower spike encourages a second bloom. This plant readily self-sows and can become a perennial under favorable conditions. It attracts bees and hummingbirds significantly.
Harvesting: To enjoy fresh flowers, cut long stems of blooms that have just opened and place them in water right away; remove any leaves that will be submerged.
Seed Saving: At the season's end, the flowers will develop dry, papery seed heads; monitor them closely, as the tiny seeds can easily be carried away by the wind. Gently shake the seed heads over a container to collect the small white seeds. Keep the cleaned seeds in a cool, dry location.
