Mad-Dog Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
(Moderately easy — plants produce many seeds, but capsules must be watched closely to prevent seed loss)

Seed Collection Time:

Late summer — typically August through September, once flowering has finished.

Signs Seeds are Ready:

• After blooming, small upright seed capsules form at the leaf nodes along the stems.

• Capsules turn brown and dry as they mature.

• When fully ripe, the top of each capsule pops open, releasing tiny, dark brown to black seeds.

• Seeds fall out easily if the plant is gently tapped.

Seed Collection Steps:

1. Cut seed-bearing stems when most capsules have turned brown but before they release all their seeds.

2. Place stems upside down in a paper bag or shallow tray to catch falling seeds.

3. Allow to dry for several days in a warm, well-ventilated location.

4. Shake or rub stems to release remaining seeds, then clean using a fine screen or by winnowing.

Germination Tips:

• Seeds germinate best after cold-moist stratification for 30–60 days.

• Direct fall sowing works well, allowing nature to provide the stratification period.

C(30–60): Refrigerate seeds in moist sand, peat, or vermiculite, or sow directly outdoors in late fall.

• Sow seeds just beneath the soil surface, lightly covered, as they do not require light to germinate.

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during germination and early growth.