The ball-shaped flowerheads of these long bloomers resemble small strawberries–the red blooms feature tiny yellow flecks, just like seeds on a strawberry. Virtually maintenance-free, they are heat and drought tolerant, flowering from summer through to fall. Growing to 80cm (30″), the plants have a branching habit but upright stems, making them excellent as cut flowers, both in fresh and dried arrangements. Gomphrena is also used medicinally and makes a subtly sweet tea. AGM Award of Garden Merit RHS
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date or direct sow after soil temperatures warm in spring. Optimal soil temperature 21-24°C (70-75°F). Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days. To speed up germination, seeds can be soaked in warm water for 24-48 hours before planting.
Starting: Sow seeds in premoistened soil and lightly cover with seed starting mix. Place in a warm area in bright, but indirect light. Keep moist. Using heat mats will speed germination.
Growing: Gomphrena are slow growers and they may take some time to set true leaves. Keep seedlings under lights until they have at least two sets of true leaves. Then, begin hardening off before transplanting, or pot them on to continue growing until outdoor temperatures are consistently warm. Gomphrena prefer well-draining soil with consistent moisture, but can handle a dry spell. They perform best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. Pinch back young plants when they are around 15cm (6″) tall to encourage a bushier habit. Some taller varieties may need support to prevent them from falling over. Deadheading is not necessary, but cutting flowers regularly may result in more blooms.
Approx. 50 seeds
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