Asclepias asperula

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Surface sow onto moist sand, do not cover seeds, simply press into the sand. Cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 4 weeks, a fridge is ideal. Then move to 20°C for germination. Germination takes 10-15 days but can be erratic. After germination grow on in cooler conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 60cm spacing. Can be sown directly in autumn where the seed will be naturally stratified by cold weather and germination should occur in spring as the weather warms.

Growing

Prefers well-drained loamy soil in full sun in a frost free area. Reduce watering after flowering. Keep almost dry in winter.

Cultivation

Will self-seed freely in areas with warm winters. Deadhead to prevent self-seeding.