Native Flowers

The Seed Savers Exchange - Splendid 4-5" mauve-colored flowers bloom from papery, straw-colored buds that resemble woven baskets. Their sweet, honey-like fragrance draws bees and butterflies to gardens, borders, meadows, and wherever else these unique flowers are sown. Basketflowers stand out in arrangements, whether fresh-cut or dry, and dry well in bud, flower, or spent-flower stage. Characteristics:  Conventional Annual plants grow to 4 foot tall, selfs so profusely 4-5 inch flowers bloom from papery, basket-like buds Can be used as a fresh-cut or dry flower Attracts butterflies and bees 50 Seeds , .75g Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors when light frost is still possible. Plants prefer average soil and tolerates dry conditions. Will self-sow profusely. Remove spent blossoms regularly to prolong blooming. Sow 1/4" deep Germination 10-20 days Thin 18-24" apart Light - Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Arroyo Lupine is a California native that is found from Southern California to just north of San Franciso. It is an annual blooms the first year from seed. Pair with yellow lupine for lovely contrasting native blooms. It reseeds itself for blooms the following year. Hummingbirds and butterflies love this plant.  Gardeners love the east drough tolerant nature of this plant. Simply harvest to sow seeds where you'd like each year.  Botanical Names: Lupinus succulentus Characteristics:  Annual, self-seeding Plants grow to 2-4 feet tall Vibrant pastels of purple blooms Prefers full sun, rich loam is best that drains well 1 gram or ~32 Seeds per packet  Instructions - Sow directly in garden in early spring. No cold stratification is needed as Arroyo lupine is an annual.   Sow 1/4" deep Germination 14-25 days Thin 12-15" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Members of the Helenium family do not cause sneezing out in your garden. Read on to learn why it is called sneezeweed. It is great plant for bees, butterflies and other beneficials in your garden. It is found along streams, marshy areas and blues around the same time as Blue Vervain and can make a lovely contrast. Sneezeweed naturalizes well and is a great food source for birds when it goes to seed. Deer and rabbits leave this plant alone as the leaves are very bitte.  Sneezeweed was dried and crushed to be add to snuff and caused some sneezing that way. Additionally ghosthunters would blow the dried flowers and leaves to find ghosts as it was rumored to cause sneezing in the supernatural.  Characteristics:  Perennial and hardy to zone 3 Plants grow to 3 to 5 feet tall Topped with yellow flowers Blooms throughout the summer into mid-fall Serves as an important late-season (after frost) nectar source for a variety of butterflies Sizing  1/16 oz sows 150 sq ft 1 oz sows 3000 sq ft 1lb sows an acre Instructions - Sow seeds outside anytime of year. It is a very easy one to start in pots as well if you'd like.  Germination 14-35 days Plant 24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

An annual native of the American Southwest and California, this flower is used worldwide for a pollen and nectar source for bees.  It blooms nonstop each year. It does have to be reseeded each year and the flowers are easily dried for their seed.  The common name Bee's Friend is a translation of Bienen-freund, German for “bee’s friend.” Botanical Name - Phacelia tanacetifolia 12-24" Tall Lavender Flowers Bees and Beneficial Host and Food Source 1,000 Seeds per packet and various bulk options Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in early spring when soil is cool and a light frost is still possible; seed must be well covered. Does very well in dry gardens. Sow 1/8" Deep Germination 7-12 days Plant 4-12" apart

We offer this fabulous U.S. Native in various ways. Best known of all the prairie flowers and the easiest to grow. A single plant can produce hundreds of blooms over the summer and into the fall. Excellent cut flower with 6-10 days of vase life. Plants grow 2-3'. Self-seeding biennial or hardy annual. Hardy to zone 3. Rudebckia Hirta is its common name and you will find the Glorioso Daisy that also has the same name. We also offer this in bulk quantities or with packets that are a bit more modest in nature.  Characteristics:  Self-seeding biennial or hardy annual Hardy to zone 3 Plants grow to 2-3 feet An excellent cut flower that lasts 6-10 days in a vase Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors just before last frost. Can also be started indoors and set out as small plants.  Plant in poor soil as rich soil will weaken stems.   Alternatively Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost.   Sow 1/2" deep Germination 10-20days Thin 18-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Blanketflower is a wonderful perennial that thrives in poor and dry soils. native pollinators are attracted to the open bright blooms and the birds do feed on the seeds come late summer. Its native range is much of the upper Midwest all the way west to the Pacific.  It is very easy to sow as you simply sow and water it in. It does need light to germinate so do not cover it with soil or mulch. It also germinates much better with cold and mosit stratification. This can be achieved either by sowing from fall to early spring or you can easily do it with a bit of sand, seeds, and water in a zip lock bag and place in your fridge for 30 days.  We also offer this in bulk quantities or with packets that are a bit more modest in nature.  Characteristics:  Self-seeding biennial or hardy annual Hardy to zone 3 Plants grow to 2-3 feet An excellent cut flower that lasts 6-10 days in a vase Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors just before last frost. Can also be started indoors and set out as small plants.  Plant in poor soil as rich soil will weaken stems.   Alternatively Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost.   Sow 1/2" deep Germination 10-20days Thin 18-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

A U.S. native that resides from the Mississippi eastwards to the Atlantic Liatris Spicata goes by Marsh Blazingstar as it prefers wet or rich garden soils. This is the most commonly seen native in gardens as its dense flowers and rich in nector and pollen. We offer it in seed year round or corms in the spring. Corms will allow you to see flowers the first year while seed will take 2-3 years to flower.  Blazing Star or Liatris Spicata will bloom all summer, provide food for butterflies, perform great in dry conditions, and naturalize well in sunny to partial sunny areas. The blooms are great in arrangements and the plant is ignored by rodents, rabbits, and deer. This plant will work hard for you without having to work hard for it. A must have in every garden. Blazing star is a family of natives that you will find in a large area of the U.S prairies, meadows, forest edges and grasslands. The species 'Spicata' is a great nectar and pollen source.  USDA Zones 4-9  Mid-Summer flowering  Bloom Duration: All Summer Cold Hardy Full Sun (some partial sun is ok) Bloom Color: Purple Additional Information Great for Naturalizing, Mass Planting, Borders, or Cut Gardens 29-36” tall Key Planting Tips Plant in full sun to partial shade, 2-3" inches deep with the roots pointing down (sometimes you have to look carefully to find them). Space each bulb 12" apart and plant in the drier parts of your garden.  Instructions: Germination is increased by a 30- day cold treatment in slightly damp paper towels in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Seed can also be directly sown into a prepared seedbed in fall, or in early- to mid-spring. Requires a rich loam, clay, or slightly moist sandy soil. Alternatively Start Indoors: 6-8 weeks before planting out or direct sow after treating the seeds or in early spring or late fall Germination: 20-25 Days Plant Outdoors: 2-3' Apart Light: Full Sun

Blue Vervain is a wonderful native that thrives in moist settings, woodland edges, prairies with rich and moist loam or in most gardens. It is often used in rain gardens, retention areas, waterland restorations, banks of streams, creeks or ponds. Blue Vervain is a bienniel that easily reseeds every year.  It is a medicinial sought after by herbalists. Wildlife such as birds, butterflies and bees are attracted to it while deer do not bother it much. It is native to much of the United States.  USDA Zones 3-8. grows to 2-4'  Botanical name: Verbena Hostata Characteristics:  Perennial and hardy to zone 3 Plants grow to 4' tall Prefersmost and rich soils Blooms in July through September  1/4 gram, ~500 seeds per packet  Instructions - Sow seeds indoors in flats 1/4" deep, moisten the soil, cover with plastic, and refrigerate for 30 days. Thereafter, provide light and 50-75°F. This moist stratification is not absolutely necessary but will help to increase germination.  Alternatively sow before frosts end in late winter or early spring, or sow in late fall.   Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Bumblee Buffet Seed Mixture Our Bumblebee Buffet Mixture was designed for home garden use and is composed of flowers that are attractive to many species of bumble bees. The assortment of flowers in the mix is based upon research done in trial gardens over the last decade. The mix contains both annuals and perennials and consists of adaptable, native species as well as an attractive assortment of garden flowers. Check out all of our pollinator mixes at Pollinator Mix Flowers: White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida), Arroyo Lupine (Lupinus succulentus), Balsam 'Camellia Flowered Mix' (Impatiens balsamina), Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), Blue Sage (Salvia farinacea), Dwarf Sulphur Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus), Gayfeather (Liatris spicata), Lacy Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea), Rocket Larkspur (Delphinium consolida), Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Siberian Wallflower (Cheiranthus allionii), Spurred Snapdragon (Linaria maroccana), Yellow Lupine (Lupinus microcarpus densiflorus), Zinnia 'Dahlia Flowered Mix' (Zinnia elegans) Seeding Rates: 7 oz for 1,000sq ft 9-18lbs per acre (depends on density of existing plantings) 1 Acre with Grass - 9 lbs per acre 1 Acre with Flowers - 18 lbs per acre 1 oz packets when planted with flowers it will do 130 sq ft Instructions - Sow seeds anytime: fall before winter sets in, spring or summer.  The area should be worked to either be free of all plants or prepared to allow seed contact to soil when planting in existing beds. Some grasses will germinate in the cool weather, while others will remain dormant until the is warms.  Sow 1/4" deep Germination 10-20 days

Butterflyweed milkweed blooms in the mid to late summer.  It has long lasting blooms and goes for about 4-6 weeks covered in orange blossoms. Sow early in spring while it is still cold and you will most likely have late summer blooms.  Plants reach 2-3' tall and prefer dry and sandy soils.  It does well in garden like well drained loamy conditions too. Hardy to USDA Zone 4. Botanical Name:  Asclepias tuberosa Characteristics:  Perennial and hardy to zone 4 Plants grow to 2-3 feet Bright orange flowers in summer and fall Pollinator-friendly; extremely attractive to bees, hummingbirds, moths, and butterflies 75 Seeds per packet  Instructions - It is recommended to cold stratify this seed so sow early in pots (great for winter sowing) or directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. You can also encourage germination if you miss the cold period but sowing into a tray of media, moisten, cover and place in fridge for 21 days.  Remove and provide dequate light and non freezing conditions.  It is easy to transplant and makes tubers that are easy to put anywhere you'd like.  Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outside while still cold Sow 1/4" deep Germination 10-40 days Plant 12-24" apart Light: Partial Sun to Full Sun

Firefly Farm & Mercantile - California Bluebells are gems in the drought resistant gardens. They love the heat and provide masses of color in late spring through mid summer.  They are native to California and Arizona for drier desert climates. Once established they will reseed so you have blooms for years to come.   Botanical name: Phacelia campanularia Annual Full sun to partial shade is optimal 8-16” tall Instructions: Sow seeds outdoors when the soil can be worked through early summer. Sow 1/4 deep to slightly cover them. They germinate in about 10-20 days.  Start Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost Plant Outdoors: 8-10” Apart Light: Full Sun

🧡 California Native Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) The Iconic "Cup of Gold" for Your Sustainable Garden Nothing captures the spirit of the American West quite like the California Native Poppy. This sun-drenched wildflower is famous for its satiny, brilliant orange petals and delicate, blue-green feathery foliage. A symbol of resilience and natural beauty, the California Poppy is the ultimate "low-maintenance" flower. Whether you are looking to brighten a dry hillside, create a water-wise meadow, or add a pop of vintage color to your borders, this native treasure is a gold-standard choice for every eco-conscious gardener. 📜 Historical Heritage: The "Copa de Oro" The history of the California Poppy is as rich as its color. Long before it was named the Official State Flower of California in 1903, it was cherished by the Indigenous peoples of the region for its medicinal properties and as a source of food (the seeds were often used in cooking). Early Spanish explorers were so captivated by the sight of entire hillsides glowing with these flowers that they named the region "La Tierra del Fuego" (The Land of Fire) and called the flower "Copa de Oro" (Cup of Gold). They believed the petals falling into the earth were the source of the gold eventually found in the California hills. Scientifically named in the early 1800s by botanist Adelbert von Chamisso, it was named after his friend and fellow naturalist, Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz. To plant these seeds is to invite a piece of legendary frontier history into your home. ✨ Why Gardeners Love California Poppies Drought-Tolerant Champion: One of the best flowers for Xeriscaping. Once established, it requires almost no supplemental water, thriving in the heat where other flowers wither. Pollinator Magnet: An essential source of high-quality pollen for native bees, honeybees, and butterflies. Self-Seeding Wonder: Though it is an annual, it is a prolific self-seeder. Once planted, you can expect "volunteer" poppies to return to your garden year after year. Living Sundial: The petals are phototropic—they open wide in the bright sun and "sleep" (close up) at night or during cloudy, rainy weather. Deer Resistant: Its slightly bitter sap makes it a low-priority snack for deer and rabbits. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Eschscholzia californica Plant Type Native Annual (Perennial in Zones 8-10) Height 12 to 18 inches Sun Requirement Full Sun (6-8+ hours) Bloom Period Spring through Summer Soil Preference Well-drained; thrives in poor, sandy, or rocky soil Water Needs Very Low (Drought Tolerant) 🌱 How to Grow California Native Poppies 1. Sowing the Seeds (Direct Sow is Best):California Poppies have a long, sensitive taproot and do not like to be transplanted. For the best success, sow them directly where they are to grow. When: Sow in early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked) or in the fall for an earlier spring bloom. Depth: Sow seeds 1/16 inch deep (barely covered). They need a little light to stimulate germination. Preparation: Simply clear the area of weeds, scatter the seeds, and press them firmly into the soil with your hand or a flat board. 2. The Perfect Location:These poppies demand Full Sun. They are famously unfussy about soil and actually prefer "poor" soil over rich, fertilized garden beds. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas; they must have excellent drainage. 3. Maintenance: Watering: Water lightly until the seedlings are established. After that, let nature take its course! Deadheading: If you want a longer bloom season, remove the spent flower "cones" before they turn into seed pods. Fall Cleanup: If you want them to return next year, leave the seed pods on the plant in late summer so they can "pop" and scatter their seeds naturally. 🎨 Garden Design California Poppies look spectacular when planted in large "drifts" or masses. Their vibrant orange hue creates a stunning visual contrast when paired with blue-toned flowers like Blue Grama Grass, Hairy Beardtongue, or Cornflowers. As a native wildflower, they are a key component for Meadow Restoration and Wildfire Recovery landscapes. Garden Tip: Don't worry if your soil is "bad." In fact, California Poppies often bloom better in sandy, gravelly, or nutrient-poor soil where other plants refuse to grow! 🌼☀️

🌿 Canada Milkvetch (Astragalus canadensis) The Architectural Sentinel of the Great Plains Bring a sense of majestic structure and deep ecological value to your garden with Canada Milkvetch. This robust North American native is a standout in any perennial border or meadow, featuring tall, elegant spikes of creamy-white to pale-green tubular flowers. Standing atop lush, fern-like foliage, these blossoms create a unique "candelabra" effect that remains beautiful from mid-summer through autumn. As a member of the legume family, Canada Milkvetch isn't just a pretty face—it’s a hardworking soil rebuilder and a premier "nursery" for some of our most beautiful native butterflies. 📜 Historical Heritage & Pioneer Roots Canada Milkvetch is the most widely distributed species of the Astragalus genus—the largest genus of plants in the world—and is native to nearly every province in Canada and most of the United States. Historically, this plant was a vital resource for Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains. The Lakota and Blackfoot tribes utilized the roots for medicinal purposes, including soothing digestive tonics. The name "Milkvetch" comes from an old European belief regarding its cousins: that livestock grazing on these plants would produce a higher yield of milk. While its western relatives are often called "locoweeds," Canada Milkvetch is the gentle giant of the family, prized for centuries for its ability to stabilize prairie soil and provide high-protein forage for wild grazing animals. 🐝 An Ecological Engine: Benefits to Pollinators If you want a garden that hums with life, Canada Milkvetch is a non-negotiable addition. It serves as a vital hub for a wide range of beneficial insects: Bumblebee Specialized: The long, tubular flowers are perfectly designed for bumblebees, who are the primary pollinators. Their weight and strength allow them to "trip" the flower to access the hidden nectar within. Butterfly Nursery: It is a critical host plant for the larvae of several butterflies, most notably the Western Tailed-Blue and the Eastern Tailed-Blue. By planting Canada Milkvetch, you are providing the essential food needed for these butterflies to complete their life cycle. Soil Health: Like all legumes, it possesses a specialized relationship with soil bacteria that allows it to "fix" nitrogen from the air into the earth, naturally fertilizing the soil for surrounding plants. Beneficial Wasps: The flowers attract tiny parasitic wasps that act as a natural pest control, hunting aphids and other garden pests. ✨ Product Highlights Unique Vertical Form: Provides striking architectural interest at the mid-to-back of the border. Hardy & Long-Lived: A dependable perennial that returns reliably year after year, even in harsh northern climates. Drought Tolerant: Once established, its deep taproot makes it incredibly resilient during dry summer spells. Late-Season Interest: The flower spikes transition into attractive seed pods that turn reddish-brown and rattle in the wind, providing winter texture. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Astragalus canadensis Plant Type Native Perennial (Hardy in Zones 3–8) Height 3 to 4 feet Sun Requirement Full Sun to Partial Shade Bloom Period June through August Soil Preference Highly adaptable; prefers moist to average loamy soil Nitrogen Fixer Yes 🌱 How to Grow Canada Milkvetch from Seed 1. Seed Preparation (Scarification):The seeds have a very hard, protective coat. To ensure successful germination, you must scarify them. Method: Gently rub the seeds between two pieces of fine-grit sandpaper for 30 seconds to thin the outer shell. Soaking: After scarifying, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours. They should appear swollen before planting. 2. Sowing: Fall Sowing: Direct sow in the late autumn. Winter’s natural freeze-thaw cycle will break the seed coat naturally. Spring Sowing: After scarifying and soaking, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep. Germination: Expect sprouts in 10–20 days. 3. The Best Spot:Canada Milkvetch thrives in Full Sun but will handle light shade well. It prefers soil that stays somewhat moist but is remarkably adaptable to various soil types, including heavy clay. 4. Maintenance: Spacing: Thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart. Patience: Like many native perennials, it may spend its first year developing a strong root system, with the most dramatic flowering occurring in its second and third years. 🎨 Garden Design Tip Canada Milkvetch looks breathtaking when paired with the deep purples of Giant Purple Hyssop or the vibrant pinks of Showy Tick Trefoil. Its creamy-white spikes act as a "neutralizer," helping to blend together the bolder colors of a summer wildflower meadow. Garden Tip: Leave the seed pods on the plant through the winter! Not only do they provide a unique rattling sound in the wind, but they also serve as a vital shelter for overwintering beneficial insects. ❄️🌿

Renee's Garden Seeds-Native to California, Mountain Garland Clarkia is one of my favorite American wildflowers. The multiple flower stems are covered with ruffled ribbons of small blossoms shaped like tiny informal roses. Fluffy 2- to 3-foot-tall wands of color fill the late spring garden in soft shades of coral, salmon, rose-pink, lilac and white. Beautifully adapted to home gardens, the abundant graceful blooms are perfect for informal bouquets. Monet would have loved them in his gardens at Giverny! Botanical Name: Clarkia elegans  We also have Clarkia in other options too Characteristics:  Hardy Annual Plants grow to 2-3 feet Various Shades of Pinks, Roses, Corals and more, all summer and fall Pollinator-friendly; extremely attractive to bees, hummingbirds, moths, and butterflies 500mg, ~750 Seeds per packet Instructions -As early in spring as ground can be worked, sow seeds 1 inch apart into a finely textured garden bed in full sun. In climates where the ground doesn’t freeze, sow seed in late fall for bloom the following spring. Cover very lightly, about 1/8 inch deep and keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed and water carefully and thin before they get too crowded Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

🌸 Mountain Garland Clarkia (Clarkia unguiculata) The Native "Mist" of the California Foothills Capture the airy, romantic spirit of the West Coast with Mountain Garland Clarkia. Also known by its historical name, Clarkia elegans, this stunning native wildflower produces tall, graceful wands smothered in ruffled, double and semi-double blooms. With a breathtaking palette ranging from soft lilac and rose-pink to deep burgundy and creamy white, a patch of Mountain Garland looks like a vibrant mist floating in the garden. It is the premier choice for gardeners seeking an elegant, vertical element for their cutting gardens or wildflower meadows. 📜 Historical Heritage & Native Roots Mountain Garland is a proud California native, historically found dancing across the oak woodlands and chaparral slopes of the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges. The genus was named in honor of Captain William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. While the expedition focused on the Northwest, this particular species was eventually discovered and sent to Europe in the 1830s. It became an instant sensation in Victorian England, where gardeners fell in love with its long-lasting "garlands" of flowers. It eventually returned to American gardens as a refined heirloom, cherished for its ability to bring a touch of wild, "frontier" beauty into formal borders. ✨ Product Highlights Vertical Elegance: Features long, slender stems reaching up to 3 feet tall, making it a perfect backdrop or "thriller" in garden designs. Pollinator Playground: An absolute favorite for native bees and a wide variety of butterflies, providing a high-volume nectar source. Premier Cut Flower: The flower spikes open from the bottom up and have an exceptional vase life (up to 10 days). They provide a wild, airy texture to summer arrangements. Shade Tolerant: One of the rare native wildflowers that will bloom beautifully in partial shade, making it perfect for the edges of woodlands or under tall trees. Vibrant Color Palette: Every packet contains a joyful mix of pinks, purples, and whites, often with unique bicolors. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Clarkia unguiculata (syn. C. elegans) Plant Type Native Annual Height 24 to 36 inches Sun Requirement Full Sun to Partial Shade Bloom Period Late Spring to Mid-Summer Days to Maturity 70–80 Days Water Needs Low to Moderate 🌱 How to Grow Mountain Garland Clarkia 1. Sowing the Seeds (Direct Sow is Best):Like all Clarkias, Mountain Garland has a sensitive taproot and does not like to be transplanted. When: Sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In mild-winter climates (Zones 8-10), you can sow in the fall for an earlier spring display. Depth: Surface sow and press firmly into the soil. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate. Preparation: Clear the area of weeds. These plants love a bit of a "crowded" look, which helps the tall, slender stems support each other. 2. The Perfect Location:While they love Full Sun in cooler climates, Mountain Garland is uniquely adapted to Partial Shade in hotter regions. It prefers well-drained soil and—like most native wildflowers—actually blooms better in "lean" or poor soil. Avoid heavy fertilizers, which can lead to weak stems and fewer flowers. 3. Maintenance: Watering: Water regularly during the germination period. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant but will stay in bloom longer with consistent moisture during extreme heat. Spacing: Thin seedlings to 8–10 inches apart. The "Support" Rule: Because they are tall and airy, they look best when planted in dense "drifts" where the plants can lean on one another. If planting a single row, they may require light staking or a decorative fence for support. 🎨 Garden Design Tip Mountain Garland Clarkia looks spectacular when planted behind shorter, mounding flowers like California Poppies or Dwarf Godetia. The vertical spikes of the Clarkia provide a stunning contrast to the low-growing "cups" of the other poppies, creating a professionally designed, multi-layered look. Garden Tip: For the best cut flowers, harvest the spikes when the bottom 2 or 3 blossoms have opened. The rest will continue to unfurl in the vase, providing you with a week of fresh "garlands" indoors! ✂️🌸

A stunning native in your wilflower gardens and deserves a place in even more refined garden spaces. Plant this beauty along your driveway to see endless blooms every time you come home.  Its native range is the central US to the south central regions down to Texas. It excels in xeriscapes, dry prairies, along roadsides and in general problem areas. It can create beautiful backdrops for you gardens as well as being the spotlight if you choose. It blooms continously all summer!  We also offer this in bulk quantities or with packets that are a bit more modest in nature.  Botanical Name: Rudbeckia amplexicaulis Characteristics:  Short-lived perennial that reseeds easily Award winning native as it creates dense blooms and will keep blooming when deadheaded Hardy to zone 3 Plants grow to18-30 inches tall Coverage: 1 Packet will cover 50 sq ft densely 1 oz will cover 1,000 sq ft when planted by itself, 2,500 sq ft when planted in existing beds.  Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors just before last frost. Can also be started indoors and set out as small plants.  Plant in poor soil as rich soil will weaken stems.   Alternatively Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost.   Sow 1/2" deep Germination 10-20days Thin 18-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Common Milkweed or Asclepias syriaca was once common across all of the U.S. east of the Rocky Mountains.  As its population has declined so has the Monarch butterfly. This is a very easy native and once estabished you will be delighted to see its return year after year. lt prefers loamy soil or drier sandier soils. The bold flowers are irresistible to monarchs and this is an essential host plant to lay eggs on.  Common milkweed is often part of "wilding gardens" as it is elegant nature lends well to rural and urban settings.  Characteristics:  Perennial and hardy to zone 4 Plants grow to 3-4 feet tall Preferred food source of Monarch butterflies 75 Seeds per packet  Instructions - It is recommended to cold stratify this seed so sow early in pots (great for winter sowing) or directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. You can also encourage germination if you miss the cold period by sowing into a tray of media, moisten, cover and place in fridge for 30 days.  Remove and provide adequate light and non freezing conditions.   Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outside while still cold Sow 1/4" deep Germination 10-40 days Plant 12-24" apart Light: Partial Sun to Full Sun

🌸 Deerhorn Clarkia (Clarkia pulchella) The Historical "Pinkfairies" of the Pacific Northwest Bring a piece of American frontier history and a truly unique silhouette to your garden with the Deerhorn Clarkia. Also known as "Pinkfairies" or "Elkhorn Clarkia," this native annual is famous for its extraordinary, deeply lobed petals that remarkably resemble the antlers of a deer. With its delicate shades of lavender, pink, and rose, this wildflower provides an ethereal, lace-like texture to the garden that is unlike any other bloom in the wildflower world. 📜 Historical Heritage & Royal Origins The Deerhorn Clarkia holds a special place in the annals of North American botany. It was first collected by Meriwether Lewis in 1806 during the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition along the Clearwater River in what is now Idaho. Upon the expedition's return, the genus was named Clarkia in honor of William Clark. Clarkia pulchella (which means "beautiful") was actually the first species of Clarkia ever described by science, making it the "type species" for the entire genus. Historically, it was a vital plant for the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, who harvested the nutritious seeds to be parched and ground into meal. To grow this flower is to cultivate a direct link to the earliest scientific explorations of the American West. ✨ Product Highlights Antler-Shaped Blooms: Features spectacular four-lobed petals that create a unique, geometric starburst pattern. Vibrant Native Beauty: Offers a stunning range of colors from soft orchid-pink to deep magenta, often with a white or yellow center. Pollinator Essential: A primary nectar source for native bees and a wide variety of butterflies. Drought Tolerant: As a native of the inland Northwest, it is highly adapted to dry summers and requires very little supplemental water once established. Effortless Elegance: With its upright, slender stems and airy habit, it looks beautiful in "meadow-style" plantings or tucked into the front of a garden border. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Clarkia pulchella Plant Type Native Annual Height 12 to 20 inches Sun Requirement Full Sun to Partial Shade Bloom Period Late Spring to Early Summer Water Needs Low (Once established) Soil Preference Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil; avoids rich fertilizers 🌱 How to Grow Deerhorn Clarkia from Seed 1. Sowing the Seeds (Direct Sow is Best):Clarkias have sensitive roots and do not like to be moved. For the best success, direct sow them in their permanent home. When: Sow in very early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in the fall in milder climates for an earlier spring bloom. Depth: Surface sow the seeds and press them firmly into the soil. Do not cover them deeply, as they require light to germinate. Preparation: Clear the area of weeds and ensure the soil is loose and well-drained. 2. The Perfect Spot:Deerhorn Clarkia loves full sun but can handle light afternoon shade in exceptionally hot climates. It thrives in "lean" soil—avoid areas with heavy compost or high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers. 3. Maintenance: Watering: Keep the soil moist during the germination period (about 2 weeks). Once the plants reach 4–6 inches tall, they become quite drought-tolerant. Spacing: Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart. Self-Sowing: If you allow the flower heads to dry on the plant in late summer, they will drop seeds and naturally "volunteer" in your garden the following spring. 🎨 Garden Design Because of its airy, lavender-pink hues, Deerhorn Clarkia looks spectacular when planted alongside other early-season natives like California Poppies or Western White Yarrow. Its unique petal shape is best viewed up close, so plant it along garden paths or in containers where the "deerhorn" details can be fully appreciated. Garden Tip: Clarkias are excellent cut flowers! Snip the stems just as the first few flowers on the stalk begin to open; they will continue to bloom in the vase for up to a week. ✂️🌸

🌸 Dwarf Godetia (Clarkia amoena) The Satiny "Farewell-to-Spring" for Stunning Borders Celebrate the transition of the seasons with the breathtaking Dwarf Godetia. Often known by its poetic name, "Farewell-to-Spring," this native wildflower is famous for its large, cup-shaped blooms that possess a unique, shimmering satiny texture. The Dwarf variety is a compact powerhouse, producing dense clusters of flowers in shades of pink, rose, and white, often marked with a dramatic "clove" or splash of crimson at the center. It is the perfect choice for adding high-impact, jewel-toned color to the front of your borders and containers. 📜 Historical Heritage & Native Roots Like its cousin the Deerhorn Clarkia, the Godetia is named in honor of Captain William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The species name, amoena, is Latin for "pleasing" or "lovely"—a fitting description for one of the West Coast's most beautiful native annuals. Native to the coastal hills and mountains from British Columbia down to California, it earned the nickname "Farewell-to-Spring" because it typically begins its spectacular bloom cycle just as the cool spring rains cease and other spring wildflowers begin to fade. Historically, it was a vital part of the Western landscape, providing a final burst of nectar for pollinators before the heat of summer. It was brought into the nursery trade in the 19th century, where it was refined into this "Dwarf" selection to suit the tidy garden beds of the Victorian era. ✨ Product Highlights Satin-Like Petals: The blooms have a luminous, silk-like sheen that catches the light beautifully, making them stand out in any garden bed. Compact "Dwarf" Habit: Growing only 10–14 inches tall, this variety is ideal for edging paths, window boxes, and small patio containers. Late-Spring Showstopper: Fills the "bloom gap" between early spring bulbs and mid-summer annuals. Butterfly & Bee Magnet: Its wide, open cups are easily accessible to a variety of native pollinators. Tough & Resilient: Once established, it is remarkably drought-tolerant and thrives in "lean" soils where other flowers might struggle. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Clarkia amoena Plant Type Native Annual Height 10 to 14 inches Sun Requirement Full Sun to Partial Shade Bloom Period Late Spring to Early Summer Water Needs Low to Moderate Soil Preference Well-drained; prefers sandy or poor soil 🌱 How to Grow Dwarf Godetia from Seed 1. Sowing the Seeds (Direct Sow Recommended):Godetias have a sensitive taproot and prefer not to be moved once they have sprouted. When: Sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In mild-winter climates (Zones 8-10), you can sow in the fall for earlier spring color. Depth: Surface sow the seeds and press them firmly into the soil. Do not cover them deeply, as they require light to germinate. Preparation: Clear the planting area of weeds. Godetia doesn't mind a bit of a "crowded" look, which helps the stems support one another. 2. The Best Spot:Dwarf Godetia loves full sun in cooler climates but appreciates partial afternoon shade in hotter regions. It is famously unfussy about soil quality and actually produces more flowers in "lean" soil. Avoid adding heavy fertilizers, which can result in lots of leaves but very few blooms. 3. Maintenance: Watering: Keep the soil moist during the germination period (about 10–15 days). Once the plants are established, they are quite drought-tolerant. Spacing: Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart. Cool Roots: If possible, mulch the base of the plants lightly to keep the roots cool as the weather begins to warm up in early summer. 🎨 Garden Design Because of its compact size and shimmering colors, Dwarf Godetia looks stunning when planted as an edging plant along walkways. Its pink and rose tones pair perfectly with the silvery foliage of White Yarrow or the deep blues of Hyssop. Garden Tip: For the longest display of color, try to keep the soil on the leaner side. If the soil is too rich, the plant will finish its life cycle quickly; in poorer soil, it tends to bloom more slowly and steadily. 🌸✨

🌼 Dwarf Helenium (Helenium amarum) The Golden Sunburst for Hot, Sunny Borders Bring a splash of tireless, golden-yellow cheer to your garden with the Dwarf Helenium. Also known as "Yellowdaze" or "Fineleaf Sneezeweed," this North American native is a champion of the summer heat. Unlike its taller cousins, the Dwarf variety forms a tidy, mounded plant covered in fine, thread-like foliage that resembles dill or fennel. Topped with hundreds of daisy-like flowers featuring distinctive spherical centers, this plant is a "blooming machine" that thrives in the brightest spots of your garden. 📜 Historical Heritage & Native Roots The Helenium genus carries a name steeped in classical mythology. It is named after Helen of Troy; legend has it that these bright yellow flowers first sprang from the ground where her tears fell. Helenium amarum is a proud native of the Southern and Central United States, historically found dancing across sun-drenched prairies and open meadows. It earned the common name "Sneezeweed" not because it causes hay fever (its pollen is too heavy to be wind-borne), but because the dried leaves were historically used in snuff to induce sneezing, which was believed to rid the body of evil spirits. Today, it is valued by native plant enthusiasts as a rugged "pioneer species" that brings life and color to parched landscapes. ✨ Product Highlights Non-Stop Summer Color: Blooms profusely from early summer all the way until the first frost. Unique Fine Foliage: The delicate, needle-like leaves provide a soft, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with broad-leaved garden plants. Heat & Drought Champion: Loves the sun and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established—perfect for "low-water" gardening. Pollinator Magnet: A vital nectar source for native bees, honeybees, and small butterflies. Compact & Tidy: Reaching only 12–18 inches tall, it stays neatly in its place, making it ideal for the front of borders and containers. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Helenium amarum Plant Type Native Annual Height 12 to 18 inches Sun Requirement Full Sun (8+ hours) Bloom Color Bright Yellow with Yellow Centers Days to Maturity 60–70 Days Soil Preference Well-drained; thrives in poor, sandy, or disturbed soil 🌱 How to Grow Dwarf Helenium from Seed 1. Sowing the Seeds:Dwarf Helenium is very easy to grow from seed. It can be started indoors but performs exceptionally well when direct-sown in the garden. When: Sow outdoors after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Depth: Surface sow the seeds and press them firmly into the soil. Do not cover them, as they require light to germinate. Germination: Expect sprouts in 7–14 days. 2. The Perfect Spot:This plant is a true sun-worshipper. Choose the brightest, sunniest spot in your garden. It is famously unfussy about soil quality and actually prefers "lean" soil. Avoid heavy fertilizers, which can make the plant "leggy" and reduce the number of flowers. 3. Maintenance: Watering: Water regularly during the germination period. Once established, Dwarf Helenium is remarkably drought-tolerant, though a little extra water during extreme dry spells will keep the blooms coming. Spacing: Thin seedlings to 8–12 inches apart. They will grow together to form a beautiful, solid mound of yellow. Deadheading: While not strictly necessary for the health of the plant, removing faded flowers will keep the plant looking tidy and encourage even more flower production. 🎨 Garden Design Because of its vibrant yellow hue and fine texture, Dwarf Helenium looks spectacular when paired with purple or blue flowers like Hyssop or Mealycup Sage. It is an excellent choice for Rock Gardens, Xeriscaping, or as a bright "edging" plant along gravel paths. Garden Tip: If you have an area of your yard where the soil is poor or "difficult," try Dwarf Helenium. It is a rugged native that specializes in turning tough spots into beautiful, pollinator-friendly havens! 🐝☀️