Seeds collecting in February?
Yes, it is possible especially if you don’t pay good attention in late fall.
Somehow I didn’t notice the first fruit produced by Calycanthus until last Saturday! It flowered beautifully last spring and then a few green fruits were aborted during late summer. I thought that was it and didn’t pay attention afterwards.
A nice surprise; I received the young plant three years ago from a friend and it was very satisfying for both of us to see it fruitful :)
Calycanthus floridus (Carolina allspice) is an excellent native shrub which can be grown in many situations from sun to shade; fast growing with beautiful shiny foliage, it is rarely affected by any pests. Did I forget to mention the sweetly fragrant, burgundy flowers?
The fruit is an interesting large, brown capsule, which can be mistaken with a fallen leaf/small branch, and holds few large seeds. They are very easy to germinate (read about nicking) and show up with convoluted cotyledon leaves (a rare case).
Speaking NA natives, I put together a short list of other species which flower around the same time in mid April-May, and are suitable for cold climates. They all grow in the same bed with the Calycanthus. If only I would have more space….
T. cuneatum, T. luteum, Uvularia grandiflora, Mitella diphylla, Asarum canadense, Hepatica acutiloba, Trautvetteria caroliniensis
yes, there are a number of plants that hold onto their seed through winter. The seeds are perfectly viable. Here are some I’ve had success with – Lavender, Hypericum kalmianum, and basil of all things. Grey birch are now dropping seeds but I’ve not tried to grow them on. I figure if they hold onto seed that’s when they are best for germinating.
I know Betty, the title was more of a rhetorical question because I was surprised by the fact I didn’t notice the fruit earlier. But with the fall being so busy…
There is also Liatris in the garden holding the seeds, actually very ornamental, and like you mentioned other species can be collected in the winter as well (especially the ones with indehiscent capsules).