DRYAS OCTOPETALA SEEDS

Dryas octopetala

Namesake of the inexplicable climatic phenomenon known as the Younger Dryas, just preceding the Holocene. Preferring polar and alpine conditions typically, during the Younger Dryas this hardy stoloniferous perennial colonized soils throughout the northern hemisphere, from Europe to Siberia and North America. This species will not tolerate extreme heat and is best in perpetually cool environs, but can be kept with some care in the cool misty pockets of the Northeast so long as it receives protection from hot sun in the summer.

Shining green leaves and pretty white flowers that bloom in succession on plants that grow to just 5" or so. Flowers throughout spring, and even through summer in cool climates. Even after bloom ceases the dramatic tufts of maturing seeds are attractive.

Seeds germinate erratically, but at least some will germinate readily at cool room temperature under grow lights or in a northern windowsill. Once seeds have germinated, prick out to grow on in moist soil at cool temperatures. Avoid heat. Seeds may also be sown into the garden in late autumn, or into pots overwintered in a sheltered location outdoors. Seedlings should be grown in loose gritty soils amended with bone meal and protected from direct sunlight until very well-rooted. Drainage and protection from extreme heat is key. Transplant into the garden in early spring or in late autumn. Situate where they will receive dappled shade in summer but full sun in the cooler months.

Where these plants are happy they will spread by stolons and seeds and make a fine groundcover. Extraordinarily hardy circumpolar species that will survive winter virtually anywhere on the planet given drainage.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.