Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana)

Seed Collection Time:

Mid to late summer — typically July through August, depending on species and location.

Signs seeds are ready:

• After blooming, Bluestar produces long, narrow seed pods (resembling green beans).

• As seeds mature, pods turn yellowish to brown and begin to split at the seams.

• Inside are hard, rounded to cylindrical brown seeds.

• Pods may twist and spring open when fully dry.

Seed collection steps:

1. Harvest seed pods when they are fully brown and beginning to split, but before seeds fall out.

2. Place pods in a paper bag or tray to finish drying indoors for several days.

3. Open or shake pods to release seeds, then clean out debris.

4. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until stratification.

Germination tip:

• Benefits from cold-moist stratification for 60–90 days.

• C(60–90): Refrigerate in moist medium or sow in fall for natural stratification.

• Seeds may germinate slowly and irregularly — patience is key.