Thermopsis villosa (previously T. caroliniana), Carolina Lupine or Carolina Bushpea is a herbaceous perennial in the Fabaceae family. It is also a Native Plant in USDA Hardy zones 4-9. This plant was grown in my garden using organic and all natural growing practice and non GMO, these seed were open pollinated and harvested in August 2023.

A great pollinator food source, cut flower and for wildflower gardening.

Thermopsis villosa is an upright, clump-forming perennial that is 3-5' H, 2-3' W. It definitely reached 5' in my garden, as I was eye level with the flowers. It prefers full sun, is drought tolerant once established and has a taproot. I have found in my research of this plant, it is difficult to successfully transplant because of this taproot. The yellow flowers open late spring to early summer. In my zone 6b garden the plant was in full bloom mid June. It is a great pollinator food source, cut flower and for wildflower gardening.


GERMINATION
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The seed pods can be left to dry on the plant for later seed collection, for later use of the decorative seed pods or removed. The seeds can be spread outdoors to experience a natural cold stratification period or can be collected, stored and treated for later sowing. It is recommended to store these seeds in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Germination of stored seeds is improved if the seeds are presoaked in boiling water until it cools, for at least 12 hours.

I have used a method of cold stratifying seeds in a milk jug (and other plastic containers) outdoors. The seeds experience the cold they need, but the seeds are contained so you know exactly where they are. If you use this method you must keep in mind that critters might try to get into the container and if you have a top on the container it can dry out or get overly hot. It is important to check on your seeds regularly.

Thermopsis seeds can be challenging to germinate. It is important to do your own research and find which method will work best for you.

*These seeds have not received any pretreatment*

SHIPPING
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To save on paper, I do not provide any germination instructions or packing slip with your purchase. Please make note of the above information for later reference. If you would like a printable version, I would be happy to email it to you. Please let me know if you have any questions or feedback (good or bad) I am here to help! Keep your seeds in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight until you are ready to plant.

Happy Growing!

I referenced the following site for information about this plant:
www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
www.newmoonnursery.com
www.wildflower.org

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