Dicentra eximia

Germination

Sow indoors as soon as possible. Sow under glass in autumn. Indoors, surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 18-22°C for 2-4 weeks then cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 4-6 weeks, a fridge is ideal. Then remove to warmth for germination, 5-12°C. Germination takes 30-180 days and can be erratic. If germination does not occur repeated cycles of warmth and cold should offer germination. Under glass, sow and place in a cold frame, autumn warmth, followed by winter cold should offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out once established.

Growing

Prefers a moist, humus-rich, neutral or alkaline soil in partial sun. Will tolerate full sun if the roots remain cool and moist.

Cultivation

No pruning required. Will self-seed freely. Deadhead if you do not want volunteer seedlings next season.