Winged Loosestrife (Lythrum alatum)

Difficulty: 3 stars: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Seed Collection Time:

Late summer to early fall — typically August through October, depending on location and bloom time.

Signs seeds are ready:

• After flowering, small, oblong seed capsules develop at the base of each flower.

• Capsules turn from green to brown and dry out as they mature.

• When ripe, capsules split open at the top, releasing tiny, tan to dark brown seeds.

• Seeds fall out easily when gently tapped or shaken.

Seed collection steps:

1. Clip seed stalks when most capsules are brown and beginning to open.

2. Place in a paper bag or tray to air dry for several days.

3. Shake or gently crush capsules to release seeds.

4. Clean seeds by sifting or winnowing to remove plant debris.

Germination tip:

• Benefits from cold-moist stratification for 30–60 days, though some seeds may germinate without it.

• C(30–60): Store in moist medium in the fridge or sow in fall.

• Surface sow — seeds are tiny and require light for germination.