Aunt Lucy (Ellisia nyctelea)

Seed Collection Time:

Late spring to early summer — typically June through early July.

Signs seeds are ready:

• After flowering, the plant produces small, round capsules that dry to a brownish tan color.

• As they ripen, capsules begin to split, revealing 2–4 hard, brown seeds inside.

• Mature seeds are firm, dark brown, and detach easily when rubbed.

Seed collection steps:

1. Monitor capsules closely and harvest when they are brown but before they split open completely.

2. Place capsules in a paper bag or tray and allow them to air dry for a few days.

3. Gently crush or open the capsules to release the seeds.

4. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until ready to stratify or sow.

Germination tip:

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

• C(60–90): Refrigerate seeds in moist sand or paper towel, or sow outdoors in fall.