Twinleaf (Jeffersonia diphylla)

Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
(Somewhat challenging — seeds are fleeting, ant-dispersed, and require careful timing)

Seed Collection Time:

Late May through June — after early spring bloom (March–April).

Signs seeds are ready:

• Seed capsules turn from green to light brown and split open along the top.

• Seeds are shiny, dark brown, and have a cream-colored fatty appendage (elaiosome) that attracts ants.

• Capsules open suddenly, so timing is critical.

Seed collection steps:

• Check plants frequently as capsules mature; collect before they fully split to prevent loss.

• Place seeds in a paper bag or breathable container and keep slightly moist.

• Do not allow seeds to dry out — they are short-lived and lose viability quickly.

Germination tips:

• Seeds require double dormancy (a warm period followed by a cold period), often taking 18 months or more to germinate.

• Best sown fresh outdoors in a shaded, moist bed and left undisturbed.

• Germination is slow and irregular; plants take several years to reach maturity.