About the plant
What it is and where it grows — not part of any germination protocol.
- Habit
- Perennial, Forb/herb
- Native range
- Native to the lower 48 states
Toxicity is noted only where a source states it. No note here is not a finding of safety.
Source: PLANTS Database — USDA NRCS.
This source reports 4 treatments. All are shown.
Protocol 1
DerivedN. C. Deno, 1993Difficulty Low Rated by us, not by the source.
Start around September 17, 2027 for a May 3 last frost. Too late for spring 2027 — that needed starting on September 16, 2026.
- 1
Dry storage
Duration: 180 days · Temperature: 70°F 21°C
- 2
Cold moist stratification
Temperature: 40°F 4°C
about 6 months from start to sowing. Germination time not stated; 21 days assumed.
77% germination.
The best result by far, and an odd one: store it dry warm, then sow it cold.
This source doesn't state how long.
Protocol 2
DerivedN. C. Deno, 1993Difficulty Moderate Rated by us, not by the source.
Start around December 31, 2026 for a May 3 last frost.
- 1
Cold moist stratification
Duration: 90 days · Temperature: 40°F 4°C
33% germinated at 40 itself, over 1-10 weeks. Deno gives no length for this period; three months is his standard cycle.
- 2
Warm moist stratification
Temperature: 70°F 21°C
A further 49%, in 1-5 days.
about 3 months from start to sowing. Then 5 days to germinate.
49% germination in 1–5 days.
33% comes up in the cold itself, then 49% within days of the move.
This source doesn't state how long.
Protocol 3
DerivedN. C. Deno, 1993Difficulty Moderate Rated by us, not by the source.
Start around April 2, 2027 for a May 3 last frost.
- 1
Sow and cover
Temperature: 70°F 21°C
No stated waiting before sowing. Then 3 days to germinate.
39% germination in 2–3 days.
Fresh seed at 70 is quick but partial: 39%, most of it in two or three days.
Protocol 4
DerivedN. C. Deno, 1993Difficulty High Rated by us, not by the source.
Start around September 17, 2027 for a May 3 last frost. Too late for spring 2027 — that needed starting on September 16, 2026.
- 1
Dry storage
Duration: 180 days · Temperature: 70°F 21°C
- 2
Sow and cover
Temperature: 70°F 21°C
about 6 months from start to sowing. Germination time not stated; 21 days assumed.
11% germination.
Dry storage then warmth is the worst of the four: 11%, against 77% sown cold.