Year’s end

Concentrating to process the current orders as fast as possible, I’ve missed the usual Friday posting.

There were also a few new species to be announced, so I’ve prepared the files for uploading. What better way to end the year than announcing the latest additions to the Seeds List!

Previously announced: Campanula alpina and Pulsatilla alpina.

Also, two new Penstemon species: Penstemon gracilis and Penstemon palmeri.

Good things come to those who wait, so a few seeds pck. of Gentiana paradoxa hybrid are also available.

Last, Veratrum nigrum seeds, that recently arrived from a friend.
The  commonly called False Black Hellebore (never understood why, the foliage doesn’t resemble a hellebore) is not often grown from seeds, and for good reason: like many other rhizomatous species it is slow to grow and reach flowering age.
On the other hand, it is not something found at the garden centres, so those with a ‘collector’ strike, may choose to go via propagating it from seeds.

True, you will have to wait a few years to witness the impressive, tall flowering stems covered in myriads of star-shaped blackish flowers, but rosettes with large, pleated leaves are very ornamental in themselves.

Like all other Veratrum species, V. nigrum is both a toxic and medicinal plant. The rhizomes are poisonous if ingested.
Traditionally powdered rhizomes were used to treat various ailments, particularly for high blood pressure, epilepsy…it would be much more to say on this subject. Also reported to have insecticidal properties.

At the end of the year, I extend many thanks to those who have purchased seeds from BotanyCa in 2024 and not only. I hope you managed to grow at least a few seedlings and new plants will embellish your garden in 2025 and beyond!

Happy New Year! May all your seeds germinate and grow into beautiful plants!