SEEDS AVAILABLE:
Seeds have been "sowed" warm in moist vermiculite since January 2026 and will germinate (a radicle root emerges) in early summer 2026 or may take another year. Either way, gently nick each seed (only through the hard black seed coat) and sow (in a pot or in the ground), keep moist and protected (sink pot in ground) to go through natural cold in fall 2026. Foliage emerges the second spring. Be patient!
5 seeds
PLANT PROFILE:
Zone: 4-9
Height and Spread: 1.5-2.5m [5-8ft]
Bloom: Mid-late spring into early summer; large, bowl-shaped; white or pinks, all with basal blotches of deep maroon-black; fragrant
Foliage: Deciduous; Large, divided leaves, blue-green tinged raspberry, striking, especially upon spring emergence
Fruit: Large star-shaped seed pods open to reveal big tan and red-brown seeds that become shiny black with age
Light: Sun to part shade, south- or west-facing site with shelter from winter winds and morning frost
Water: Average
Soil: Average; moist but well-drained
Garden location: Borders, woodland. Should be given 'pride of place' as these shrubs are so breathtaking.  Can be grown in containers of at least 30cm [12"], provided plant receives a cold season [sink pot in ground for winter].