Eremurus robustus

Germination

Sow indoors Feb-Jul. Sow in a cold frame in autumn. Indoors, mix seed with some moist, well-drained seed compost and place in a zip-lock style freezer bag. Place the bag somewhere bright, ideal temp. 25-27°C for 5-6 weeks. Then cold stratify, move to 2-4°C for 12 weeks, a fridge is ideal. Seeds may germinate during this time, if so remove and pot up. If not remove after 12 weeks and sow. Germination can be erratic. Can be sown into a cold frame in autumn allowing warmth followed by natural winter cold to offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots. Ideally place in a cold frame and allow to grow on for 2 years before planting in final flowering position.

Growing

Prefers a fertile, sandy, well-drained loamy soil in full sun. Prefers a sheltered location with protection from wind. May require staking. In cool areas protect the crown with a dry mulch over winter but remove in spring before new growth emerges.

Cultivation

Propagate via seed or by division after flowering. Once seed has been collected the flower stems can be cut back to the base of the plant. The foliage will die down naturally.