Daucus Carota, Queen Anne's Lace

DAUCUS CAROTA, QUEEN ANNE'S LACE

Synonyms: Wild Carrot, Devil's Plague Description: annual or biennial, 24-36 inches tall; foliage finely divided, flowers in umbels of tiny white flowers, umbels 3-4 inches wide. STATE NOXIOUS WEED in IA, ID, IL, KS, MI, MO, SD, TX, WV and Canada. Range/habitat: Europe; widely naturalized in the U.S., especially common in the east and the midwest, roadsides, dry fields and waste places Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils; aggressive, weedy plant Germination information: State standard=55 Seeds/lb.=450,000 Planting rate:1 oz./450 sq. ft., l lb./7,500 sq. ft., 6 lbs./acre (60)

DELPHINIUM AJACIS, ROCKET LARKSPUR

Synonyms: Consolida ambigua Description: annual, 12-36 inches tall; spikes of flowers arising from clump of basal leaves, flowers are pink, blue, purple or white Range/habitat: Mediterranean region; intro. into Austria, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Portugal, Russia, and Switzerland; cultivated ground and roadsides. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, moist to dry soils, avoid acid soils; attracts hummingbirds Germination information: State standard=60 Seeds/lb.=142,000 Planting rate: l lb./2,400 sq. ft.; 18 lbs/acre (60)

DELPHINIUM OCCIDENTALE, WESTERN LARKSPUR

Synonyms: Tall Larkspur, Tall Mountain Larkspur, Duncecap Larkspur; Delphinium x occidentale Description: upright perennial, 3-6 feet tall, upper stems are sticky/glandular; small flowers are pale blue to purple, spurred, and numerous in tall, dense clusters; leaves are palmately divided; flowers June to August; Range/habitat: western U.S. Culture/uses: partial sun, moist soils, Zones 4-5; considered an invasive weed in some areas; poisonous to livestock Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 157,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./250 sq. ft., 11 lbs./acre (40)

DESMANTHUS ILLINOENSIS, ILLINOIS BUNDLEFLOWER

Synonyms: Illinois Tick Clover, Prairie Mimosa, False Sensitive Plant, (do not get this confused with Desmodium illinoense, which is a separate species) Description: a warm-season perennial, 36-60 inches tall; has doubly compound lvs. which create a fernlike appearance, the leaves are touch-sensitive and fold up when touched; flowers are creamy white and spherical, blooms mid-late summer. Range/habitat: from OH and ND, s. to FL, and NM; common throughout tallgrass prairie and great plains, usually in disturbed sites, pastures, rocky open wooded slopes, ravines, streambanks, roadsides, waste places. Culture/uses: prefers full sun, dry to moist soils; an important high-protein food plant for wildlife and readily eaten by livestock, also used for revegetation and prairie restoration. Good for Tallgrass Prairie plantings. Germination information: state standard = 40+H, has hard seed Seeds/lb.= 67,000 Planting rate = 1 lb./3000 sq. ft., 13 lbs./acre (20)

DIANTHUS BARBATUS, SWEET WILLIAM PINKS

Description: annual to short-lived perennial, 12-24 inches tall; produces clusters of flowers with toothed petals, in white, pink, red, purple, or violet, often bi-colored. Sweet-scented. Blooms in zone 5 from mid-May to mid-July. Range/habitat: Pyrenees, Carpathian Mtns, Balkan Peninsula (Spain, France, Czechoslovakia, Romania, Russia, Greece, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia); intro. into Denmark, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Holland, Portugal, and Sweden. Naturalized in the U.S. Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils, prefers rich, moist and well-draining soil; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity; good for fragrant gardens, cut- flowers, attracts butterflies. Zones 4-10. Germination information: State standard=70 Seeds/lb.=437,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./450 sq. ft., l lb./7,300 sq. ft., 6 lbs./acre (60)

DIANTHUS DELTOIDES, MAIDEN PINKS

Description: mat-forming perennial, 6-16 inches tall; flowers are dark pink, with serrated petals. Blooms in zone 5 from mid-May to July. Range/habitat: Europe except Ireland and Iceland; dry fields and woods. Escaped locally into waste places. Culture/uses: full sun to light shade, dry to moist soils; prefers gritty, alkaline soil; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity; excellent for borders, rock gardens, fragrant gardens; can be susceptible to crown rot. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=60 Seeds/lb.= 2,270,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./2000 sq. ft., l lb./38,000 sq. ft. (60)

DIANTHUS PLUMARIUS, COTTAGE PINKS

Synonyms: Grass Pinks, Old-Fashioned Pinks, Garden Pink, Scotch Pink Description: mat-forming perennial to 20 inches tall, foliage glabrous and glaucous (silvery), leaves extremely narrow; flowers are pink, white, purple, or bicolored with dark centers, fringed and bearded; flowers have a clove fragrance. Blooms late May to July in zone 5. Range/habitat: Austria to Russia & Siberia, introduced and established in U.S. from New England to Michigan; sandy fields and roadsides. Culture/uses: full sun, moist and humusy soils; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity. Cut back flowers to promote longer bloom. Zones 4-9. Germination information: State standard= 50 Seeds/lb.= 349,000 Planting rate: l lb./6000 sq. ft., 7.5 lbs./acre

DIANTHUS SUPERBUS, FRINGED PINKS

Synonyms: Lilac Pinks Description: short-lived perennial to 20 inches tall, foliage green and glabrous, flowers re pink, white or lilac, very fragrant; petals deeply fringed and bearded. Blooms mid-June to Aug. in zone 5. Range/habitat: Italy and Romania, north to Scandinavia, east to Russia and Japan; rich, moist soils, full sun. Culture/uses: full sun, moist soils; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity. May be best treated as a biennial. Zones 4-9. Germination information: State standard= 50 Seeds/lb.= 613,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./10,000 sq. ft., 4 lbs./acre

DIGITALIS PURPUREA, FOXGLOVE

Description: biennial, 24-48 inches tall; flowers on tall stalks arising from clump of basal leaves, flowers are tubular, to 3 inches long, purple or cream colored with spots inside. Blooms in zone 5 in June. Range/habitat: Italy, Norway, Russia and Sweden; intro. into Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Romania; open woods, heaths in mountains. Culture/uses: partial sun to shade, moist soil; prefers porous but rich, moist soils; may reflowers if cut back; dried leaves are the principal source of the drug, digitalis. Flowers may attract hummingbirds. Germination information: State standard=60. Seeds/lb.= 4,753,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./5000 sq. ft., lb./79,000 sq. ft., l/2 lb./acre (60)

DIMORPHOTHECA AURANTIACA, AFRICAN DAISY

Synonyms: Dimorphotheca sinuata Description: annual, 8-16 inches tall; has large orange, salmon or white flowers, 2 inches wide, blooms in 53 days. Range/habitat: Africa, naturalized in the U.S. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils; an excellent cutflower but will close at night, drought- tolerant. Germination information: State standard=55 Seeds/lb.=242,000 Planting rate: l lb./4,000 sq. ft., 10 lbs./acre (60)

ECHINACEA ANGUSTIFOLIA, NARROW-LEAF PURPLE CONEFLOWER

Synonyms: Black Sampson, E. pallida var. angustifolia Description: perennial, 12-24 inches tall; leaves narrow (linear-lanceolate), flowers are violet, with shorter petals than E. pallida or E. purpurea. Produces a long taproot. Blooms in summer (mid June-July 30 in USDA zone 5). Range/habitat: MN to Sask., south to OK, TX; dry upland prairies and barrens. Culture/uses: full sun, dry well-draining soils; perfect for Shortgrass Prairie mixes and xeriscaping; most widely used medicinal plant of the Plains Indians - used as a painkiller, for coughs, colds, sore throats, and snake bites. Roots are now grown for use in herbal healthcare industry. Germination information: state standard=50, best temp. = 70-75 degrees, treat with GA3 to help break dormancy or prechill for 30 days. Seeds/lb.=110,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./2,700 sq. ft., 16 lbs./acre (40)

ECHINACEA PALLIDA, PALE PURPLE CONEFLOWER

Synonyms: Rudbeckia pallida Description: perennial, 24-48 inches tall; has long reflexed lavender petals with purplish brown disk; strongly taprooted, leaves are usually more narrow than E. purpurea. Blooms in summer (mid-July to mid-Aug. in USDA zone 5). Range/habitat: midwest U.S. south to LA, AL, GA, dry to mesic prairies and open savannas. Culture/uses: full sun to light shade, dry to moderate soils best, attracts birds and butterflies, a good cutflower. Suitable for tallgrass prairie plantings. Germination information: state standard=50, best temp. = 70-75 degrees, prechill 30 days if seed has dormancy. Seeds/lb.=106,000 Planting rate: l lb./3,500 sq. ft., 12 lbs./acre (30)

ECHINACEA PARADOXA, YELLOW CONEFLOWER

Description: perennial, 12-36 inches tall; flowers have reflexed yellow petals (the “paradox”) with large, brown central cone; blooms June-July; dry flower stems persist over the winter; leaves are smooth, lance-shaped, and 4-8 inches long; taprooted Range/habitat: KS, MO, AR, and TX; dry glades and prairies Culture/uses: full to partial sun; dry to moderate soils best, attracts birds and butterflies; Zones 5-8. Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 62,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./1000 sq. ft., 28 lbs./acre (40)

ECHINACEA PURPUREA, PURPLE CONEFLOWER

Synonyms: Hedgehog Coneflower Description: perennial, 24-36 inches tall; produces large, rose-purple flowers, up to 6 inches across, with dome-shaped centers. Bushy plant, blooms in zone 5 from late June through August. Range/habitat: Ohio to Iowa, S. to Louisiana and Georgia; dry, open woods and rocky prairies. Culture/uses: full sun to light shade, tolerates various soil types but does best in moderately moist but well-drained soil which is rich in humus; tolerate combination of heat and humidity; sow l/4 inch deep. A good cutflower, attracts butterflies, seeds attract birds. Watch for mildew. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=60, best temp.=70-75 degrees, seed usually has a little dormancy. Seeds/lb.=ll7,000 Planting rate: l lb./3,900 sq. ft.; l2 lbs./acre (30)

ELYMUS CANADENSIS, CANADA WILD RYE

Description: cool season, native bunchgrass; grows 4-6 feet tall; has wide blades and coarse seed heads similar to nodding wheat. Range/habitat: Quebec to s. Alaska, south to NC and northern CA. Dry to moist soils, usually sandy, gravelly or rocky; prairies, stream banks, lakeshores, ditches, various disturbed sites, most often in open areas. Culture/uses: full sun to light shade, used as a nurse crop in prairie plantings (plant at rate of 2-3 lbs./acre); quick growing and matures in the first year. Highly tolerant of different soil conditions. Germination information: Seeds/lb.=115,000 Planting rate: 3 lbs./acre with wildflowers, 8-10 lbs./acre alone

ENGELMANNIA PINNATIFIDA, ENGELMANN DAISY

Synonym: Cutleaf Daisy Description: perennial, 24-36 inches tall; leaves are deeply pinnately lobed; flowers are yellow, daisy-like, to 1 inch across. Range/habitat: KS to CO, south to LA and northern Mexico; open, dry, calcareous soil. Culture/uses: full sun, dry locations; drought tolerant but supplemental watering may extend the flowering period Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 120,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./4800 sq. ft., 8 lbs./acre (25)

ERIGERON SPECIOSUS, FLEABANE DAISY Synonyms: Aspen Daisy Description: perennial, 8-24 inches tall; produces masses of aster-like, lavender flowers with yellow centers. Blooms mid-June to mid-July. Range/habitat: Alberta and British Columbia, S. to Montana, New Mexico, and Arizona; open, wooded areas. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils, prefers well-drained soil that is not too rich; attracts butterflies. Zones 2-10. Germination information: State standard=60 Seeds/lb.=l,892,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./2000 sq. ft., l lb./32,000 sq. ft., 1.4 lbs./acre (60)

ERYNGIUM YUCCIFOLIUM, RATTLESNAKE MASTER

Synonyms: Button Eryngo, Yucca-leaf Eryngo, Button Snakeroot Description: perennial, to 3-5 ft. tall, the basal leaves are rigid and linear, up to 3 feet long with prickles along edges, resembling Yucca; flowers are white and in spherical clusters. Flowers have a sweet aroma that attracts various pollinators. Blooms in summer (July-Sept.). Range/habitat: CT south to FL, west to MN, KS and TX. Found in wet or dry prairies and woodland clearings. Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils; makes interesting cut or dried flowers, Indians used fibers from the leaves and used the roots for medicinal purposes. Suitable for tallgrass prairie plantings. Germination information: state standard=40+D, has dormancy Seeds/lb.= 120,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./4000 sq. ft., 11 lbs./acre (30)

ESCHSCHOLZIA CAESPITOSA, DWARF CALIFORNIA POPPY

Description: annual, 5-10 inches tall; forms tufts of basal, blue-green, finely divided leaves; flowers are bright yellow, to 2 inches across, with 4 petals. Range/habitat: central and southern California, dry flats, brushy slopes, grasslands and Chaparral. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils Germination information: State standard=50 Seeds/lb.=453,600 Planting rate: 1 oz./450 sq. ft., l lb./7,600 sq. ft., 6 lbs./acre (60)

ESCHSCHOLZIA CALIFORNICA, CALIFORNIA POPPY

Description: annual to perennial, 12-18 inches tall; forms a tuft of basal, blue-green, finely divided leaves; flowers deep orange to pale yellow, 2-4 inches across, with 4 petals, blooms in 55 days. This is the state flower of California. This is a short- lived perennial in zones 8-10, hardy annual elsewhere. Variety: Ballerina Mix, 8-14 inches tall; flowers in orange, yellow, rose and scarlet Variety: Mikado Variety: Splendid Mix Variety: White Linen Range/habitat: Washington to California; common in grassy and open places up to 6,500 feet. Culture/uses: very adaptable, full sun, dry to moist soils, prefers well-drained poor soils; resents transplanting; bees are attracted to the pollen. A perennial in zones 8 to 10, annual elsewhere. Germination information: avoid planting in very hot weather; State standard=60 Seeds/lb.=250,000 Planting Rate: 1 oz./250 sq. ft., l lb./4200 sq. ft., 10 lbs./acre (60)

EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM, BONESET

Synonym: Thoroughwort Description: pubescent, rhizomatous perennial, 3-4 feet tall; small white flowers are in flat-topped clusters; leaves are opposite, joined at the base, narrow, to 8 inches long, leaves were once used to make bandages, their shape indicating their usefulness in healing broken bones, giving rise to the common name Range/habitat: eastern North America from Nova Scotia to FL; moist woods and thickets, swamps Culture: full to partial sun, moist soils, attractive to butterflies; Zones 3-8. Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 2,563,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./4000 sq. ft., 1 lb./64,000 sq. ft., (40)

FESTUCA ARUNDINACEA, TALL FESCUE

Synonyms: Reed Fescue, Alta Fescue, F. elatior var. arundinacea Description: Cool-season perennial to 40 inches tall, lacks rhizomes, 1/4 inch wide leaf blades, dark green. Range/habitat: Europe, naturalized in U.S., ME to WA, south to NY and CA. Cultivated as a meadow and forage grass, considered to be a pest by some groups. Culture/uses: Use as a meadow grass for the southeastern states of AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, AND SC, and for Hawaii. Tolerates wide range of soil types and temperature extremes. Commonly used for pastures, lawns and turfgrass for sports fields. Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 230,000 Planting rate: 10-15 lbs./acre with wildflowers,

FESTUCA OVINA, SHEEP FESCUE

Description: Cool-season perennial to 16 inches tall, bunch forming and very fine bladed. Range/habitat: Open woods and stony slopes, ND to WA and AK, south to AZ and NM; introduced eastward to MI, ME, IL and SC. Culture/uses: meadow grass, erosion control and soil improvement, good for high elevations. Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 680,000 Planting rate: 10-15 lbs./acre with wildflowers

FESTUCA OVINA DURIUSCULA, HARD FESCUE

Description: Cool-season perennial to 16 inches tall, bunch forming with wider and firmer leaf blades than F. ovina but still fine-bladed. Range/habitat: Europe, used for erosion control and soil improvement in the Pacific Northwest, Intermountain region, central Rocky Mtn. region and northern Great Plains. Culture/uses: meadow grass, erosion control and soil improvement, Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 680,000 Planting rate: 10-15 lbs./acre with wildflowers, 4-5 lbs./1000 sq. feet for lawns.

GAILLARDIA ARISTATA, PERENNIAL GAILLARDIA

Synonyms: Blanketflower Description: perennial, 18-30 inches; leafy plants that bear 4 inch, daisy-like flowers, in shades of yellow, bronze and burgundy, often banded. Blooms in zone 5 from June through August. Ecotypes: Yellow Gaillardia, native Colorado ecotype, 12-24 inches tall, 140,000 seeds per pound Range/habitat: N. Dakota to Colorado, west to Oregon and sw. Canada; pinyon-juniper, ponderosa pine, aspen, lodgepole pine, and spruce-fir communities, usually below 8,500 feet elevation Culture/uses: full sun; prefers light, well-drained, infertile soils; withstands heat and drought, grows best in pH of 5-6.5 but can tolerate up to 8.0; sow l/4 inch deep. Zones 3-9. Germination information: State standard=45 Seeds/lb.=l60,200 Planting rate: l lb./4,000 sq. ft., l0 lbs./acre (40)

GAILLARDIA PULCHELLA, ANNUAL GAILLARDIA

Synonyms: Firewheel, Indian Blanket Description: annual, 12-24 inches; leafy plants that bear daisy-like flowers, to 3 inches across, red tipped with yellow or entirely yellow or red. State flower of Oklahoma. Range/habitat: coastal Virginia to Florida, west to New Mexico, north to Colorado, Nebraska and Missouri; open, loose or sandy soil; prairies, fields and woodland openings. Culture/uses: full sun, well-drained soils Germination information: State standard=45 Seeds/lb.=223,300 Planting rate: l lb./3,700 sq. ft., 12 lbs./acre (60)

GAURA LINDHEIMERI, GAURA

Description: perennial, 3-4 feet tall; a graceful, long-blooming member of the Evening Primrose family, the one inch wide white flowers have 4 petals situated on the top half, and the stamens and styles are quite long. Leaves are long and narrow. Hardy to USDA zones 6-10, blooms early July to Sept. in zone 5. Range/habitat: native to east Texas, Louisiana and adjacent Mexico Culture/uses: full sun, good drainage a must, can tolerate drought and extreme heat and humidity; cut back to 8 inches in mid-season of second year to encourage fuller growth. Germination information: State standard=50 Seeds/lb.=27,200 Planting rate: 1 lb./1200 sq. ft., 36 lbs./acre (30)

GILIA CAPITATA, GLOBE GILIA

Description: slender annual, 12-24 inches tall; leaves finely dissected, produces oblong shaped, blue flower clusters Range/habitat: British Columbia to cent. California, e. to western Idaho; open, well- drained slopes of evergreen forests below 6000 ft. Culture/uses: full sun to partial shade, dry, well-drained soils; withstands drought Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.=986,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1000 sq. ft., l lb./16,400 sq. ft., 2.6 lbs./acre (60)

GILIA TRICOLOR, BIRD'S EYES

Description: slender annual, 12-18 inches; flowers to l inch across, pale violet with throats marked by paired purple spots surrounding a yellow or orange tube, fragrant. Range/habitat: California; open grassy plains and slopes, below 2,000 ft. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils; Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.=l,024,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./650 sq. ft., l lb./l0,000 sq. ft., 4 lbs./acre (100)

GYPSOPHILA ELEGANS, ANNUAL BABY'S BREATH

Synonyms: Gypsophila muralis Description: slender annual, 8-18 inches; produces graceful, open branches with clusters of l/2 inch white flower, blooms in 45 days. Range/habitat: S. Ukraine, Caucasus, e. Turkey, n. Iran; sandy places. Naturalized in eastern North America. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry soils; creates a misty effect in borders, rock gardens; prized for bouquets. Germination information: State standard=70 Seeds/lb.=378,000 Planting rate: l lb./ 6,300 sq. ft., 7 lbs./acre (60)

GYPSOPHILA PANICULATA, PERENNIAL BABY'S BREATH

Description: stout perennial, 24-36 inches tall; stems and foliage are bluish-green, leaves are long and slender, flowers are white, in diffuse panicles. Blooms mid-June through August in zone 5. Noxious weed in California. Range/habitat: central and eastern Europe to central Asia Culture/uses: a widely used dried ornamental, great as a filler for cut or dried arrangements; tends to be invasive. Prefers full sun, moderate watering, avoid strongly acid soils; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity. Deadhead to promote longer bloom. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=70 Seeds/lb.= 378,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./9500 sq. ft., 5 lbs./acre (40)

HELENIUM AUTUMNALE, AUTUMN SNEEZEWEED

Description: hardy perennial to 5 feet tall; rigid stems are distinctively winged and branched near the top; flowers are 1-1.5 inches wide with yellow rays and dome shaped yellow disks. Bloom time extends from late summer through autumn. The ground and dried ray flowers and leaves were used as snuff in the past, which gave this plant its common name. Do not grow around livestock as the plant parts are poisonous if ingested. Range/habitat: Quebec to Florida, west to British Columbia and Arizona; moist soils along streams, ponds or ditches and in spring-fed meadows, moist prairies and wet, open sites. Culture/uses: prefers full sun and rich, moist soils, intolerant of dry soils and overfertilization; use in prairies, meadows, and native gardens where soils are damp. Plants can be cut back in early June to reduce plant height and encourage branching. Attracts bees and butterflies. Hardy in zones 3-8. Germination information: Seeds per lb. = 1,603,000 Planting rate = 1 oz./3000 sq. ft., 1 lb./acre (35)

HELIANTHUS ANNUUS, SUNFLOWER

Synonyms: Common Sunflower, Mirasol Description: robust annual, 24-72 inches tall; produces cheery yellow flowers, 2-4 inches across with purplish-brown centers. Has allelopathic properties. Variety: Autumn Beauty, 40-60 inches tall; flowers in red, orange and yellow Variety: Dwarf Sungold, 24-36 inches tall, 4-inch double yellow, “fluffy” flowers with small green “eye”; also called ‘Teddy Bear’ Range/habitat: Throughout U.S., s. Canada and n. Mexico; abundant in roadsides, waste places and other open sites. Intro. into Europe in the l6th century. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils; highly adaptable, seeds attract seed-eaters Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.=59,800 Planting rate: l lb/l000 sq. ft., 22 lbs./acre (30)

HELIANTHUS MAXIMILLIANI, MAXIMILIAN SUNFLOWER

Description: tall (3-8 feet) perennial sunflower with yellow flowers to 3 in. across, clustered on upper ½ of stem; leaves are grayish-green and rough to the touch, often folded and curving downward. Tubers were an important food source for Western tribes of Indians. Rhizomatous and aggressive. Blooms late Aug. – Oct. in zone 5. Range/habitat: naturally dominant plant of the prairies, across southern Canada, south to NC, KY and TX. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils; important wildlife plant, deer forage on leaves and birds eat the seeds. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb. = 182,000 Planting rate: l-lb./9,000 sq. ft., 5 lbs./acre (20)

HELIOPSIS HELIANTHOIDES, OX-EYE SUNFLOWER

Synonyms: Ox-Eye, False Sunflower Description: short-lived perennial, 2-4 ft. tall; not a true sunflower; numerous bright yellow flowers are 2.5 inches wide. Blooms summer to early fall. Range/habitat: NY to MI and n. IL, south to GA, AL, & MS. Found in moist to mesic prairies and open woods. Culture/uses: prefers full sun, mesic to moist soils, avoid very dry soils; a lovely plant for the back of the border, makes an excellent cutflower, attracts birds and butterflies. Deadhead to extend bloom. Zones 4-9. Germination information: State standard=55 Seeds/lb.= 142,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./4700 sq. ft., 9 lbs/acre (30)

HESPERIS MATRONALIS, DAME'S ROCKET

Synonyms: Dame's Violet, Sweet Rocket Description: short-lived perennial, 24-48 inches; produces 4-petalled flowers of lavender, sometimes white, very sweet scented. Blooms in zone 5 from mid-May to mid July. Range/habitat: central and southern Europe (Austria, Albania, Czechoslovakia, France, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Russia, Spain and Yugoslavia); hedges, clearings, damp meadows, and waste places. Naturalized in North America; common in cultivated lands, roadsides, thickets and open woods. Culture/uses: full sun to shade, moderate to moist soils; prefers well-drained, moist soils. Excellent for backgrounds of borders, fragrant gardens, attractive to butterflies. Zones 3-9. STATE NOXIOUS WEED IN COLORADO. Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.= 246,000 Planting rate: l lb./4,100 sq. ft., 10 lbs./acre (60)

IBERIS SEMPERVIRENS, PERENNIAL CANDYTUFT

Description: evergreen subshrub (perennial), 6-12 inches tall; has dark, shiny green leaves, 4-petalled flowers are in 2-inch clusters, white. Blooms in zone 5 from late April through May. Range/habitat: Albania, Italy, Greece; rocky places, screes of mountains. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils Germination information: State standard=55 Seeds/lb.= 138,000 Planting rate: l lb./2,300 sq. ft., 19 lbs./acre (60)

IBERIS UMBELLATA, CANDYTUFT

Synonyms: Globe Candytuft Description: slender annual, 12-18 inches; produces dense clusters of small, white, pink or purple, 4-petalled flowers; blooms in 55 days. Range/habitat: Mediterranean region, escaped in areas of California Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils Germination information: 65 Seeds/lb.=l95,000 Planting rate: l lb./2,400 sq. ft., 18 lbs./acre (80)

IMPATIENS BALSAMINA, BALSAM

Synonyms: Rose Balsam Description: branching annual, 12-18 inches; flowers are mostly axillary, in rose, salmon, white, scarlet and violet, mostly double-flowered; leaves long and toothed Range/habitat: India and southeast Asia Culture/uses: partial sun or shade, moist, well-drained soil; used in the garden or containers Germination information: Seeds/lb.=730,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1000 sq. ft., 1 lb./18,000 sq. ft. (40)

IMPATIENS HOLSTII, IMPATIENS

Synonyms: Busy Lizzie, Patient Lucy, Patience Plant, Touch-Me-Not Description: tender perennial, 12-16 inches tall; five petaled, spurred flowers in white, pink, red, orange or violet; stems are succulent; common names refer to tendency of ripe seed capsules to burst open and scatter seeds when lightly touched Range/habitat: Tanzania to Mozambique Culture/uses: partial to full shade, moist soil; used in the garden and in containers, indoors and out Germination information: Seeds/lb.=730,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1000 sq. ft., 1 lb./18,000 sq. ft. (40)

IPOMOPSIS AGGREGATA, SCARLET GILIA

Synonyms: Gilia aggregata, Skyrocket Description: biennial, 1-3 ft. tall, similar to I. rubra but tends to have sparser foliage and more open panicle; flowers are usually scarlet but pinkish to white colors also occur, trumpet-shaped and pollinated by hawk-moths and hummingbirds; arises from a narrow taproot. Blooms from mid-July to Sept. (USDA zone 5). Range/habitat: B.C. to MT, south to CA and NM, common in the mountains, foothills, sagebrush steppes, and mesas. Also associated with dry ground on the open plains. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils; good for xeriscaping, hummingbird garden. Germination information: state standard= 50, has dormancy Seeds/lb.=488,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./16,000 sq. ft., 3 lbs./acre (30)

IPOMOPSIS RUBRA, GILIA

Synonyms: Standing Cypress Description: biennial, 36-72 inches tall; unbranched stalks produce showy, trumpet- shaped flowers in shades of scarlet, rose or pale pink. Blooms mid to late summer. Range/habitat: South Carolina to Florida and west Texas; open sites and gravelly soils, roadsides Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils; attracts hummingbirds, drought tolerant Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.=369,000 Planting rate: l lb./6,100 sq. ft., 7 lbs./acre (60)

IRIS MISSOURIENSIS, WILD BLUE IRIS

Synonyms: Western Blue Flag, Rocky Mountain Iris Description: hardy rhizomatous perennial, 1-2 ft. tall; sword-like leaves are bluish-green, blue to pale lilac flowers resemble common garden Iris but are smaller. Blooms April-June in zone 5; usually flowers the 3rd year. Range/habitat: moist meadows and streambanks from low valleys to 9,000 ft. elev.; SD to BC, south to CA, AZ, and Mexico Culture/uses: prefers full sun, moist soils; great for the rock garden, spreads readily Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy, 1-3 mth. germ., snip off pointed end of seed with nail clippers to hasten germination Seeds/lb.= 26,400 Planting rate: 1 lb./1300 sq. ft., 33 lbs./acre (20)

LASTHENIA GLABRATA, GOLDFIELDS

Description: annual, 6-12 inches tall; produces masses of small, yellow daisy-like flowers, leaves are fleshy. Range/habitat: northern California, in heavy soils, low alkaline fields, and hillsides up to 4,500 ft. Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.=l,5l2,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1500 sq. ft., l lb./25,000 sq. ft., 1.7 lbs./acre (60)

LATHYRUS LATIFOLIUS, PERENNIAL SWEET PEA

Synonyms: Everlasting Pea Description: perennial, climbing vine; produces colorful rose, pink, and white flowers in 3-5 inches clusters. Range/habitat: S. Europe; widely naturalized in the U.S. along roadsides, in thickets and waste places Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils; thrives in cool climates, excellent as a cutflower Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.=10,400 Planting rate: l lb./500 sq. ft., 80 lbs/acre (20)

LATHYRUS ODORATUS, ANNUAL SWEET PEA

Description: annual vines or bushy plants, vines to 5 feet long, bush types 8-36 inches; red, salmon, pink, rose, lavender and purple fragrant flowers in spike-like clusters Variety: Royal Family Mix, large-flowered and heat resistant Range/habitat: Italy Culture/uses: full sun, moist soils; best in regions with cool summer temperatures; long- lasting cut flowers Germination information: State standard= , seeds are best soaked for 24 hours prior to planting Seeds/lb= 5,400 Planting rate: 1 lb./500 sq. ft. (10)

LAVATERA TRIMESTRIS, TREE MALLOW Description: tall, bushy annual, 24-48 inches tall; has lovely, hibiscus-like flowers in shades of white, rose-pink and red; blooms in 65 days. Range/habitat: Mediterranean region (s. Spain, s. France, Italy, Yugoslavia, Albania, and Greece); fields and rocky places. Naturalized in the eastern half of the U.S. and coastal WA and OR. Culture/uses: full sun, moist soils; easy to grow Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb= 70,800 Planting rate: l lb./1200 sq. ft., 37 lbs./acre (60)

LAYIA PLATYGLOSSA, TIDY-TIPS

Description: slender annual, 6-12 inches tall; plants with narrow leaves and 2-inch, daisy- like flowers that have gold centers and yellow rays with creamy-white, 3-toothed edges. Range/habitat: California, grassy flats near the coast below 300 ft. elev. Culture/uses: full sun; adaptable to various garden soils but prefers sandy loams; once established, keep soil on the dry side. Sow in late fall or early spring, l/8-l/4 inch deep. Creates a spectacular effect when planted thickly in beds. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.=369,000 Planting rate: l lb./4,600; 9 lbs./acre (80)

LEONTOPODIUM ALPINUM, EDELWEISS

Description: hardy perennial, forms loose tufted mounds to a foot tall, creeping by rhizomes, leaves are white-woolly below; flowers are white-woolly and star- shaped. The gathering of Edelweiss has long been symbolic of daring achievement since the plant is native to high rocky ledges of the Swiss Alps. Blooms June-July. Range/habitat: Pyrenees, Alps, and Carpathian Mountains of Europe Culture/uses: Full sun; requires deep, gritty or sandy soil since the roots grow very long, keep soil dry. A superb rock garden plant or for planting between flagstones. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy, best temp.=60-70 degrees, do not cover seed since light promotes germination. Seeds/lb.=2,240,000 Planting rate: l lb./37,000 sq. ft., 1 lb./acre (60)

LESPEDEZA CAPITATA, ROUNDHEADED BUSH CLOVER

Description: leguminous perennial, 30-45 inches tall; 3-parted leaves are silvery- pubescent; flowers creamy white with purple spot in head-like clusters Range/habitat: east central North America, from Ontario to FL and LA, west to NE and TX; prairies, savannas, woodlands, glades and river bottoms Culture/uses: full to partial sun, moderate to dry soils; attractive to birds and other wildlife; Zones 3-9 Germination information: Seeds/lb. = 128,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./2000 sq. ft., 10 lbs./acre (60)

LIATRIS ASPERA, ROUGH BLAZINGSTAR

Synonyms: Button Snakeroot Description: hardy perennial, 24-48 inches tall; has linear leaves, loose spikes of rosy- purple, button-shaped heads which bloom from late summer to early fall. This is on of the latest blooming Liatris species. Range/habitat: Ohio to S. Dakota, south to Texas and S. Carolina; dry prairies and open woods in sandy sites. Culture/uses: full sun, prefers well drained soil and moderate moisture, can tolerate drought; makes an excellent cutflower, good for hummingbirds and butterflies, goldfinches like to eat the seeds; great for wildflower meadows and native plantings. Hardy in zones 3-8. Germination information: usually has some dormancy; moist-chill to break dormancy Seeds/lb. = 210,000 Planting rate: 3 oz./1000 sq. ft., 8 lbs./acre (40)

LIATRIS PYCNOSTACHYA, THICKSPIKE GAYFEATHER

Synonyms: Prairie Blazingstar, Prairie Gayfeather, Kansas Gayfeather Description: hardy perennial, 2-4 feet tall; has linear leaves, spikes of purple flowers which bloom from the top down; blooms July to mid-August in zone 5. Range/habitat: IN to SD, south to FL, LA and TX; moist to dry prairies Culture/uses: full sun, prefers moderate to moist soils but can be drought resistant; best pH=5.5-7; tolerant of heat and humidity; good for borders, meadows - may need staking, attracts birds and butterflies, a good cutflower. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=50, may benefit from moist-chilling Seeds/lb.= 131,000 Planting rate: l lb./3300 sq. ft., 13 lbs./acre (40/ft.)

LIATRIS SPICATA, GAYFEATHER

Synonyms: Dense Gayfeather, Blazingstar Description: perennial, 24-48 inches; slender, unbranched plant with tall spike of purple flowers; blooms in zone 5 from July to mid August in zone 5. Range/habitat: Long Island to Michigan, south to Florida and Louisiana; moist areas, meadows, borders of marshes, savannas, damp slopes, wet-mesic prairies, in neutral to slightly acid soil Culture/uses: full to partial sun, moist to mesic soils; tolerates combination of heat and humidity; an excellent cutflower, attracts butterflies, seed-eaters. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.=135,000 Planting rate: l lb./3400 sq. ft.,13 lbs./acre (40) LINANTHUS GRANDIFLORUS, MOUNTAIN PHLOX

Description: bushy annual, 12-24 inches tall; has leaves divided into needle-like divisions, 1-inch flowers in dense heads, white to pale lilac Range/habitat: California, open woods and sandy places, below 3,500 ft. elev., coastal strand and scrub, pine forests. Culture/uses: prefers full sun and light, sandy soils; can sow in the fall in zones 9-10, in spring elsewhere after soil warms up. Sow l/8 inch deep. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.= 969,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1000 sq. ft., l lb./16,200 sq. ft., 2.7 lbs./acre (60)

LINARIA MAROCCANA, SPURRED SNAPDRAGON

Description: slender annual, 12-24 inches; has numerous tiny snapdragon-like flowers, in shades of pink, yellow, red, purple and violet with yellow patches in the throats and long, pointed spurs; blooms in 50 days. Range/habitat: Morocco. Naturalized in the northeastern U.S. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry soils Germination information: Seeds/lb.=6,632,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./4000 sq. ft., l lb./66,000 sq. ft., 0.7 lbs./acre (100)

LINUM GRANDIFLORUM RUBRUM, SCARLET FLAX

Description: annual, 12-36 inches; produces masses of 5-petalled, brilliant red flowers; blooms in 55 days. Range/habitat: North Africa, sometimes escaping cultivation Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils Germination information: State standard=60 Seeds/lb.=132,000 Planting rate: l lb./2,600 sq. ft., 17 lbs./acre (60)

LINUM PERENNE LEWISII, BLUE FLAX

Synonyms: Linum perenne - European species, Linum lewisii - native U.S. 'Appar' is a variety of the European species Description: perennial, 18-30 inches; produces masses of 5-petalled, sky-blue flowers, the delicate petals fade and fall off during the heat of the day, to be replaced by fresh flowers the next morning. Blooms in zone 5 from mid-May through June. 93 days to bloom in long season areas. Rnage/habitat: Ontario to Alaska, south to Wisconsin, Texas, N. Mexico and southern California; prairies and calcareous rocky banks, sagebrush, pinyon-juniper, mountain brush, mixed desert scrub, aspen and spruce-fir communities, dry slopes and ridges. Culture/uses: full sun, dry and well-drained soils; drought resistant; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity; best pH=5-7.5; sow seed 1/8 inch deep. Zones 5-10. Germination information: State standard=60, best temp.=70 degrees Seeds/lb.=295,000 Planting rate: l lb./5,900 sq. ft., 7 lbs./acre (50)

LOBELIA CARDINALIS, CARDINAL FLOWER

Synonyms: Indian Pink Description: perennial to 3-4 feet tall, leafy unbranched stems have a cluster of brilliant scarlet 1.5 inch flowers with exserted stamens. Leaves are lanceolate to 4 inches long. Blooms Aug.-Oct. in zone 5. Range/habitat: New Bruns. to MN, south to FL and eastern TX. Marshes and wooded streambanks, wet prairies and wetlands. Culture/uses: full sun to full shade, provide late afternoon shade in sunny, hot climates. Prefers sandy to loamy soils, requires moist soil - an obligate to facultative wetland species. A great hummingbird plant. Germination information: State standard= 55 Seeds/lb. = 10,309,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./10,000 sq. ft., 1/4 lb./acre (60)

LOBELIA SIPHILITICA, GREAT BLUE LOBELIA

Synonyms: Blue Cardinal Flower Description: perennial, to 3 ft. tall, plants produce a single flower stalk, blue flowers in a dense spike (raceme). Blooms mid summer through fall (Aug 1-Oct. in USDA zone 5). Range/habitat: Maine to SD, south to NC, MS, and KS. Occasional throughout the tallgrass region in prairie swales, wet prairies, along streams and in seepage areas; generally in sites with minimal competition from dense vegetation. Culture/uses: full sun to light shade, moist to moderate soils; perfect for tallgrass prairie mixes, especially where soils are moist. Germination information: state standard= 55 Seeds/lb. = 9,072,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./9,000 sq. ft., 1/3 lb./acre (60)

LOBULARIA MARITIMA, SWEET ALYSSUM

Synonyms: Alyssum maritimum Description: tender perennial, 8-16 inches; produces fragrant masses of white, pink or purple flowers, plants tend to be spreading. Blooms quickly. Variety: Carpet of Snow, 4-6 inches tall, white flowers, compact Variety: Royal Carpet, 2-4 inches tall, purple flowers, spreads to 10 inches Range/habitat: S. Europe (France, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Yugoslavia); naturalized in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Hungary, Holland, Great Britain, Norway, Czechoslovakia, and Romania. Rocky and sandy places, waste places, roadsides. Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils; excellent for fragrant, butterfly and old-fashioned gardens; highly adaptable, blooms all year round in warm climates. Germination information: State standard=60 Seeds/lb.=l,ll5,000 Planting rate: 1 oz./1100 sq. ft., l lb./l8,600 sq. ft., 2.3 lbs./acre (60)

LOTUS CORNICULATUS, BIRD'S FOOT TREFOIL

Synonyms: Bacon and Eggs Description: perennial, 12-24 inches tall; aggressive legume, leaves with 3 leaflets, flowers yellow, seed pods are linear and digitate, resembling a bird's foot. Blooms in zone 5 from June through July. Range/habitat: Europe, Asia; introduced to U.S. and established along roadsides, in fields and waste places. Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils; cultivated as a forage plant. Germination information: State standard=50, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.=370,000 Planting rate: l lb./9,300 sq. ft., 5 lbs./acre (40)

LUPINUS ALPESTRIS, MOUNTAIN LUPINE

Synonyms: Lupinus argenteus var. argenteus Description: by some authorities, considered a hybrid of L. caudatus with L. argenteus subspecies; L. caudatus, L. argenteus, and L. sericeus intergrades considerably, causing problems in keying. This species name is probably a catchall for problematic specimens. Some authorities consider it a separate species while others do not. Plants generally 2-3 feet tall, flowers blue, tip of keel long and slender. Leaves in distinctive digitate clusters, leaflets strigose above (Weber). Blooms June-July in zone 5. Range/habitat: OR and CA, east to CO, NM, SD. Dry, rocky places, pine forests to subalpine ridges, generally 5000-11,000 feet elevation. Culture/uses: dry, well-draining soils, full to partial sun, avoid overwatering Germination information: State standard= 65, has dormancy Seeds/lb.= 21,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./1000 sq. ft., 43 lbs./acre (20)

LUPINUS ARGENTEUS, SILVER LUPINE

Synonyms: Mountain Lupine Description: hardy perennial, 1-2 feet tall; foliage silvery hairy, flowers are blue, sometimes white or pink; blooms in summer. Leaves in distinctive digitate clusters. POISONOUS to livestock. Range/habitat: OR, CA, and Alta., south to NM and SD; prominent in meadows, roadsides, wooded areas; blooms in summer. Found from 6000-10,500 feet elevation. Flowers may turn muddy yellow at lower elevations. Culture/uses: sunny to shady area; prefers drier soils; attracts hummingbirds Germination information: State standard=65, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.= 11,700 Planting rate: l lb./600 sq. ft., 70 lbs./acre (20)

LUPINUS DENSIFLORUS AUREUS, YELLOW LUPINE

Description: Annual, 2-3 feet tall, yellow flowers which fade to reddish orange as they age. Blooms in spring and early summer. Range/habitat: California, possibly north into OR, WA, and Canada. Along roads, hillsides and in open fields below 2000 feet elevation, coast ranges. Culture/uses: Full sun, dry to moist soils, prefers moderate soil moisture. Attracts hummingbirds. Germination information: State standard=65, tends to have hard seed. Seeds/lb. = 19,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./950 sq. ft., 46 lbs./acre

LUPINUS HARTWEGII NANUS, DWARF LUPINE

Description: annual, 12-18 inches tall; branched spikes of white, pink, violet or blue flowers Variety: Pixie Delight Range/habitat: Mexico Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moderate, well-drained soils Germination information: can have dormancy Seeds per lb.= 27,000 Planting rate: 1 lb./900 sq. ft., 48 lbs./acre (30)

LUPINUS PERENNIS, PERENNIAL LUPINE

Synonyms: Sundial Lupine, Wild Lupine Description: perennial, 12-24 inches tall; forms clumps of basal leaves with leaflets in digitate clusters, flowers in spikes, mostly blue but sometimes pink or white. Blooms in zone 5 from mid-May through June. Range/habitat: Maine to Florida, dry woods, clearings and openings Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils; thrives in well-drained soil, do not transplant. Attracts hummingbirds. Germination information: State standard=65, best temp.=65-75 F, pour boiling water over seeds and soak 12-24 hrs. before sowing. Seeds/lb.=2l,300 Planting rate: l lb./1000 sq. ft., 40 lbs./acre (20) LUPINUS POLYPHYLLUS, RUSSELL LUPINE

Description: perennial to 3 feet, forms clumps of basal leaves with leaflets in digitate clusters, flowers are in spikes, red, blue or pink. Blooms late May – June in zone 5. Range/habitat: California to British Columbia, moist places below 7500 ft. elev., coastal ranges. Culture/uses: full sun, dry to moist soils; attracts humming-birds. Germination information: State standard=65 Seeds/lb.=22,400 Planting rate: 1 lb./1000 sq. ft., 40 lbs./acre (20)

LUPINUS SUCCULENTUS, ARROYO LUPINE

Synonyms: Succulent Lupine Description: annual, 2-4 ft. tall; has succulent stems and palmately compound leaves; the bluish to purple flowers have a yellow dot on the banner Range/habitat: western CA, northern Baja peninsula; abundant along roadsides and disturbed areas, establishes quickly in native coastal scrub areas that have burned Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils, drought tolerant; attracts hummingbirds. Germination information: State standard=65, tends to have dormancy Seeds/lb.= 15,600 Planting rate: 1 lb./800 sq. ft., 56 lbs./acre (20)

LUPINUS TEXENSIS, TEXAS BLUEBONNET

Description: winter annual or biennial, 8-12 inches tall; leaves are basal with leaflets in digitate clusters; flowers in spikes, blue with white markings; has a deep taproot. The state flower of Texas. Blooms late July thru Sept. in zone 5. Range/habitat: Texas, frequent in dry sandy or gravelly soils, plains, brushlands, flats, hillsides and along roadsides Culture/uses: full to partial sun, dry to moist soils, requires moisture to flower; best pH=5-8; highly adaptable. Sow in early fall. Germination information: state standard=65, best temp.=65-75 F, pour boiling water over seeds and soak for 12-24 hrs. before sowing. Seeds/lb.=l4,500 Planting rate: l lb./700 sq. ft.; 60 lbs./acre (20)

LYCHNIS CHALCEDONICA, MALTESE CROSS

Synonyms: Jerusalem Cross, Scarlet-lightning, London-pride Description: perennial, 24-36 inches tall; leafy plants bear striking clusters of l-inch, flaming red, rose or salmon-rose blossoms. Blooms in zone 5 from June through August Range/habitat: Northern Russia; occasionally escaping from cultivation and spreading to thickets, open woods and roadsides. Culture/uses: full sun, dry soils; does not tolerate combination of heat and humidity. Zones 3-10. Germination information: State standard=70 Seeds/lb.=l,ll2,000 Planting rate: l lb./18,500 sq. ft., 2.4 lbs./acre (60)