Medicinals, Edibles, & Other Plants of Interest

Note: The listings on this page are no longer current and should only be used for reference:

due to intractable events, losses and extensive damage to many plants these past seasons. For now, we are primarily taking orders from our Specimen Plant List [part-way down the homepage & updated monthly].

Our retail lists are in need of significant revision. In the interim, we’re not taking any seed orders (except the few Specimen or Auction listed seeds). You are welcome to make inquiries about plants on this page, but know our Specimen Plant List is the only reliable list to currently order from.
sacredsucculents@hushmail.com or benkamm@monitor.net

This will continue until our retail stock has sufficiently recovered and our lists have been revised — we hope to update the retail web pages and resume shipping seed in the near future.

____

To assure we are distributing the highest level of genetic diversity, all of the plants we offer are grown from seed unless noted otherwise

Unless noted otherwise, seed packets contain 15-40+ seeds (with very tiny seed like Gaultheria, Campanula, Nicotiana, etc the seed count is in the hundreds).

Look to all the other sections of the website for additional edible and medicinal species!

Abies pindrow CC6800  “Himalayan Fir”

Pinaceae. Tall, slender, pyramidal evergreen to 200′ in some specimens. Long, spirally arranged, dark green needles. New shoots chartreuse to yellowish. Cylindrical purple cones. Chadwell seed collection, forests of Himachel Pradesh, 8000′. Soft light wood used for building. Prefers high humidity/rainfall. Z8a
6-9 treelet 8 years old $12.50

Acacia colei “Edible Wattle”

Fabaceae. Fast growing Nitrogen-fixing tree to 15–30′. Simple leaves and yellow flowers. Northern Australia. A traditional Aborigine bush-food, the seeds being high in protein. Being grown in parts of Africa as a drought resitant foodcrop, for firewood, and reforesting. Scarify and soak seeds. Has great edible landscape potential, especially in arid regions. Z9b.
Seed packet $3

Acorus calamus “Sweet Flag”

Araceae. Rhizomatic semi-aquatic perennial with iris-like leaves to 4′. Yellow-green spadix to 4″. Native to North America and temperate Eurasia, our seed stock is from the northern US prairies, medicinally distinct from the Asian plants. A panacea, revered for its medicinal properties wherever it grows. The aromatic rhizome is a premier digestive aid, stimulant, and all around tonic. Cold stratify seed. Z3b
Seed packet $3

Agapetes hosseana “Saphaolom” “Thai Huckleberry”

Ericaceae. A lovely species that forms large woody caudiciform lignotubers. Arching branches to 3’+ with shiny, rounded-elliptic, evergreen leaves. Clusters of pendant, narrow tubular red flowers with green tips. Sweet edible berries, white to pale pink with lavender speckles. An epiphytic species native to the mountain forests of northern Thailand. The lignotubers are used in Thai medicine for nourishment after a fever. The tubers have exhibited anticancer poperties. The plant contains triterpenes and steroidal compounds with antibacterial and antimalarial activity. Part shade and a fast draining acidic soil. Does well in hanging baskets. Surface sow seeds warm. Z8b
Seed packet $4
5–10″+ plant 3-4 years old $16.50

Agapetes ‘Ludgvan’s Cross’   “Himalayan Huckleberry Hybrid”

A hybrid of A. serpens and A. rugosa, forming a 3–4’+ shrub.  2–3″ pointed leaves and eventually deveolops a gnarled woody caudex. Pale-pink lantern flowers with deep rose chevron markings are borne in mass along the stems, a sight to see! Weird, marble size, translucent white-pink to purple edible berries. Hummingbirds love Agapetes. Part shade, well draining acid soil. Rooted cuttings. Z8b
6–10″+ plant $9.50

Agapetes manii  “Himalayan Huckleberry”

Shrub to 2’+ with small densely arranged leaves. Forms caudiciform lignotubers wherever the stems touch the ground. White tubular flowers and pale purple berries with a sweet gelatinous flesh. A semi-epiphytic species from the mid elevation cloud forests of western China and northeastern India. Reported to have liver protective properties. Prefers part shade, well draining acidic soil. Exceedingly rare in cultivation. Z8b?
inquire

Agapetes oblonga  “Yunnan Huckleberry”

Rare larger species 3–10′ tall. Fuzzy stems, oblong-lanceolate leaves. New growth is lustful pink-red. Develops a large woody caudex to 20″+. Very floriferous with tubular carmine-red flowers borne along the stems. Sweet edible berries, translucent white-pink with tiny hairs. Epiphytic in the evergreen forests of Yunnan, China up to 9000′. Surface sow the seed and keep warm to sprout. Z8b/9a?
Seed packet $4.50
5–8″+ plant 2–3 years old $17.50

Agapetes pyrolifolia “Burmese Huckleberry”

Caudiciform, semi-epiphytic shrub with arching branches to about 2–3′. Evergreen obovate leaves. Orangish to creamy-pink tubular flowers with carmine red zig-zag markings and yellow to greenish tips. Edible berries. Rare species native to the evergreen forests of Myanmar, NW Yunnan and Xizang, China up to 9000′. Rooted cuttings from several clones. Z8b/9a?
4–6″+ plant $18.50

Agapetes serpens  “Khursani” “Himalayan Lantern Huckleberry”

Epiphytic evergreen shrub to 2–3’+. Graceful arching braches arising from a woody caudex to 18″+. Shocking rose-red lantern-like flowers dangle from the branches, a flamboyant display that appeals equally to hummingbirds and primates. Lavender colored sweet edible berries. Native to the Himalayan mid elevation cloud forests, up to about 9,000′. The caudex of some species is edible. Prefers part shade, well draining acid soil and regular moisture. Fruits best when cross pollinated with another clone or species. Rooted cuttings. Z8b
Seed packet $4
6–10″+ plant $9.50

Agapetes serpens ‘Nepal Cream’    “Himalayan Lantern Huckleberry”

Unusual clone with creamy white lantern flowers. A good pollinator for our regular clone. Z8b
6″+ plant $10.50 (limited)

Agapetes smithiana v. major    “Yellow Flowered Himalayan Huckleberry”

Woody caudiciform lignotubers, long arching branches with rounded leaves. Dark yellow tubular flowers hang from the stems in clusters. Edible berries. An beautiful endangered native of the mid elevation cloud forests of the western Himalaya where it occurs primarily as an epiphyte. Well draining acidic soil, part shade. Rooted cuttings. Z8b/9a
6-10″+ plant $13.50
Inquire for other Agapetes species

Alepidea amatymbica  “Ikhathazo”

Apiaceae. Rhizomatic perennial with rosettes of shiny, dark green, oblong leaves with bristly margins. Flower stalk to 6’+ with white star shaped blossoms. Native to grasslands of eastern South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Ethiopia. The dried rhizome is an immune booster and used for asthma, colds & flus, wound healing, and smoked or snuffed for headache. Zulu healers smoke or snuff the powdered root for divination and ancestor communication. Reported to be mildly sedative and dream inducing. Contains diterpenoid compounds. Prefers sun, well draining soil. Drought tolerant. Cold stratify seed, smoke treatment may also boost germination. Z7a/b sold out

Allium altaicum ‘Baikal’   “Wild Onion” “Luk Altaiskii”

Alliaceae or Liliaceae. Thick tubular leaves and rounded umbels of white flowers. Edible leaves/bulb with a delicious spicy flavor. Seed from the Baikal Lake region, southern Siberia, Russia. Wild populations are said to be endangered by overharvesting. This is the direct wild ancestor of the common culinary bunching onion. We should honor this great-grandmother by planting her in our gardens. Extremely cold hardy. Cold stratify seed. Z1
Seed packet $3.50

Allium caeruleum Holubec

Onion bulb with stalks to 2′, spherical umbels of sky blue flowers. Forms abundant bulbils amongst the flowers. Holubec collection, foothills of Zailiski Ala Tau, Kazakhstan, 4600′. One of the few truly blue flowered onions. The bulbils can be eaten or used for continual propagation. Does best with sun and a dry summer rest. Z4?
Packet of bulbils $3
50 bulbils $8

Allium dregeanum “African Leek”

Upright leaves and stem to 2’+. Dense spherical umbels of pink flowers, similar to the common leek. A disjunct native of South Africa, its nearest relatives occur thousands of miles away in northern Africa. Good edible species. Blossoms attract many beneficial insects. Cold stratify seed. Drought hardy. Z7b
Seed packet $3.50

Allium jajlae  “Wild Garlic”

Clustering, garlic-like bulb with blue-green flattened leaves to 12″+ long. Flower stalk to 18″+ tall with spherical heads of rose-violet blossoms. Native to the Caucasus and Crimea. The garlic flavored bulbs and leaves are eaten throughout its range. A worthy addition to the vegetable garden. May germinate best with cold treatment. Z6a
Seed packet $3

Allium komarovii

Awesome onion with 1–2 large, broad flattened leaves, frosted blue. The clusters of deep purple flowers are held 12″ above the leaves. A rare endemic of the mountains of Tajikistan. Likes a bright sunny spot. Dies back to the bulb in Summer. Cold stratify seed. Z6b
Seed packet $4

Allium lenkoranicum

Interesting onion species with thread like leaves and flowers 12–18″ tall. Long lasting, late summer blooms of delicate airy umbels of unequal pedicels bearing small bell flowers of unusual shades of grayish lilac to rose with darker maroon stripes. Known only from 6000′ in the Talysh mountains of Azerbaijan, near the port of Lenkoran on the Caspian Sea. The small bulbs are edible. Cold stratify seed. Z7?
Seed packet $3.50

 Allium tricoccum “Ramps” “Wild Leek”

From a slender bulb 2 broad leaves arise in Spring, after these die back a 12″ flowering stalk grows bearing a small spherical head of white flowers. Understory plant of the deciduous eastern forests of North America. The celebrated Ramps is one of the tastiest members of the onion clan, inspiring ephemeral culinary festivals throughout its range. Said to be one of the most promising and underutilized vegetables for shade and cold climates. Grows fine in northern California. Prefers shade and moist soil. Cold stratify seed. Z4a
10 seed $3
Inquire for other Allium species

For additional Allium species see our Californian offerings

Amelanchier alnifolia “Serviceberry” “Juneberry”

Rosaceae. Deciduous shrub to 4-16’+. In Spring the plant is a mass of white blossoms. Elliptic leaves and delicious blue fruits ripen June-July. Native to north-western North America. The fruits are a favorite of many indigenous tribes and were a prime ingredient of pemmican. A great addition to the forest garden, sun to partial shade. Cold stratify. Z4a
Seed packet $3 Inquire for plants

Androstephium caeruleum “Blue Funnel Lily” “Spring Stars”

Liliaceae. Perennial growing from round corms. Grass like leaves to 7″, beautiful pale blue to purple or white flowers with a faint fruity scent. A rarity native to the black soil short grass praries of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. The corms are edible and were once eaten by tribes within their range. Our collector had to risk chiggers and rattlesnakes just to collect the seed. The plant is increasingly rare in habitat as the prarie is convertd by man’s insatiable need for strip malls and track housing. Slow from seed, this is a native food that demands and deserves our dedicated patience. Drought hardy. Seed may need cold stratification. Z8a and below.
Seed packet $3

Aralia nudicaulis  “Sarsaparilla”

Araliaceae. Herbaceous perennial 1–2′ tall that spreads by underground stems. Annual compound leaves, globular clusters of tiny white flowers followed by small purplish berries that have a spicy, tart flavor. Native to the woodland understory of eastern North America. Ginseng relative that is considered a panacea by the Cherokee and other tribes. A mildly stimulating adaptogen. The subterranean stems and roots have a wonderful scent and flavor. A key ingredient in the original root beers. A hardy, shade tolerant plant. Z4a
Plant $14.50 or 2 for $25

Arracacia brandegeei BK101106.2  “Chuchupate” “Baja Arracacha”

Apiaceae. Herbaceous perennial to 4’+. Big pinnate leaves, green to purplish in color. Large airy umbels of small white flowers grow up then hang above the plant. Huge thick roots. Native to the mountains of southern Baja. The roots are used for diabetes, rheumatism, stomach and kidney ailments. Relative of the delicious “Arracacha” root that is farmed in the Andes, the edibility of this species is unexplored. Prefers part shade and mositure but can tolerate seasonal dryness. Z9a?
Seed packet $3.50
Plant 7-8 years old $12.50

Arum concinnatum Arch195.073

Areceae. Corm forming perennial with large arrow shaped leaves, green with silver mottling. Yellow-green and purple spathe to 12″. Rarity from south Greece and south west Turkey.Easy to grow and naturalizes well. Part shade.Cold stratify seed. Z6b
Seed packet $3

 Atropa caucasica “Caucasus Belladonna”

Solanaceae. Herbaceous perennial to 2′. Purplish flowers, black berries. Rare endemic of the Caucasus. Same properties as A. belladonna. Stratify seed. Z5a
Seed packet $3.50

Atropa komarovii?  “Russian Belladonna”

Herbaceous perennial to 2’+. Yellow-purple bell flowers and shiny black berries. The plant does not perfectly fit the description for this species from central Asia, so the identity is in question. Toxic medicinal like other species. Z4/5
Seed packet $3.50

Asphodeline lutea “King’s Spear”

Liliaceae. Clumping rosettes of stiff, grass like, gray-green leaves to 12″, erect flower stalks to 2–4′ clothed in numerous bright yellow blossoms. Native to the Mediterranean and eastern Europe to the Caucasus. Esteemed by the ancients Greeks who roasted and ate the nutty flavored fleshy roots. The young shoots were cooked like asparagus. Blooms abundantly all summer and the edible flowers are good bee forage and a tasty addition to salads. An easy versatile perennial for the garden. Sun to part shade, drought tolerant. Give seed 30 days cold. Z7a
Seed packet $3

Begonia grandis  “Hardy Begonia”

Begoniaceae. Herbaceous tuber forming species makes clumps to 2′ with attractive cordate leaves and pendant clusters of pink flowers. Native to the forests of east Asia The roots are used for blood circulation and as a painkiller. Light to heavy shade, rich moist soil. Naturalizes well and makes a stunning display when blooming. Z6a/b
Plant 5+ years old $7.50 or 3 for $15.50

Betula pseudomiddendorffii (=B. divaricata) “Siberian Dwarf Birch”

Betulaceae. Miniature tree/shrub, 5–10′ high. Densely arranged ovate leaves with serrated margins. Pavelka collection, Sajan Mountains, Siberia, 7300′. Beautiful slow growing small birch, extremely cold hardy. Z2a
8–24″+ treelet 9–10 years old $26.50 (limited)

Betula utilis CC5763  “Bhojapatra” “Himalayan Birch”

A gorgeous medium sized birch tree 20-35′ tall. Exceptional gold and copper peeling bark. The leaves turn a rich yellow and defoliate in Autumn. From seed collected at 12,500′ Langtang, Nepal, just south of the Tibetan border. An important tree, the bark is used for wound healing and as a carminative. In India the resin is reportededly contraceptive. Widely used for construction, the tree is now considered endangered in some regions due to deforestation. Easy to grow, does well in most soils. Z7a
16–24″+ treelet 10–11 years old $22.50 (limited)
Betula utilis CC6641 Seed packet $3 / 9–14″+ treelet 7–8 years old $16.50
Betula utilis CC7402 6–12″+ treelet 4–5 years old $9.50 (limited)

Boehmeria tricuspis  “Ba Jiao Ma” “Akaso”

Urticaceae. An elegant foliage plant of many uses. Herbaceous dioecious shrub to 3’+.  Soft, sting free, nettle-like leaves with forked tips. Green to burgundy inflorescence like a pipe cleaner. Native to forests margins of eastern Asia. The fresh young growth is cooked as a tasty, nutritious green. Used medicinally for fever. The stems are valued for their premium fiber used to make paper, cloth, rope, etc. Prefers filtered light and rich, moist soil. Z7a
Plant 5+ years old $6.50

Buddleja salvifolia  “Sagewood”

Buddlejaceae. Semi-evergreen shrub 6–20’+. Long lime-green leaves with a fuzzy wrinkled surface and white undersides. Abundant large panicles of cream to lilac colored flowers, exceptionally honey-fragrant and ambrosia to butterflies, birds and bees. South Africa. The leaves are steeped as tea and the roots used for cough and colic. Responds well to pruning and can be hedged. Adaptable and drought tolerant. Z7b
inquire

Butia capitata ‘Bohemain’  “Jelly Palm” “Pindo”

Arecaceae. Attractive, cold hardy, slow growing palm to 10–15’+. Thick trunk crowned with graceful recurved fronds. Long spikes of white flowers birth hundreds of cherry size, greenish-yellow to orange colored edible fruit, aromatic and juicy sweet. Native to southern Brazilian and Uruguay. Seed from a tree that has been growing for many decades near Bohemian Highway in the town of Occidental, CA. Slow to sprout, 2–6+ months warm. Z8a
Packet of 6 seed $3.50 (because the seeds are heavy, one packet counts as 6 for foreign shipping)

Calochortus lyallii “Star Tulip”

Liliacaceae. Bulb with grass like leaves 4–10″ high. Fuzzy, star shaped flowers, white to lavender blushed, purple inner markings. Native to the sagebrush praries and forests of central Washington and southern B.C., up to 8,300′. Bulbs edible. Seed needs 30+ days cold treatment. Z6a?
Seed packet $3.50

Calostemma purpureum “Garland Lily”

Amaryllidaceae. Narrow leafed bulb. Flower stalk to 12–18″ crowned with purplish-red flowers. Lovely species from south Australia. Winter grower. Z9b/10a
Bulbs/plant $7.50 or 3 for $15.50

Camassia angusta  “Prarie Camas”

Liliaceae. Medium size bulbs with floppy basal leaves and purple flower spikes to 2.5′ high. Blooms late spring and goes dormant late summer to winter. Endemic to the praries of the mid western and south central USA, scarce and possibly endangered throughout much of its range. The bulbs are edible and were once eaten by numerous tribes. Worthy of a place in your garden. Cold stratify seed. Z4a
Seed packet $3

Camassia scilloides (=C. esculenta)   “Eastern Camas”

Decent size, squat bulbs. 1–2′ flower spike with white to pale violet blossoms in the spring. Native to the eastern USA and Canada. Widespread, yet endangered in some areas due to industrial agriculture and urban sprawl. The bulbs were a key food, raw or cooked, for many eastern tribes. Try growing as a food crop. Dormant mid summer to late winter. Seed needs 30+ days cold to sprout. Z4a
Seed packet $3

Campanula punctata ssp. hondoensis

Campanulaceae. Attractive spreading perennial 1–2′ tall. Purple to cream colored, speckled, 2–3″ long inflated bell flowers. Wild seed, grassy slopes, Japan. Very floriferous. The large blossoms are highly edible and tasty, a significant addition to salads. Sun or part shade. Surface sow seed. Z4a
Seed packet $2.75

Campanula rapunculus  “Rampion”

Small herbaceous biennial to 3′. Sky-blue bell flowers. Northern Europe. Once a widely grown and esteemed food plant, it has fallen into obscurity. The thick white roots have a delicious crisp flavor eaten raw and the leaves and flowers are excellent in salads. Easy to grow, sun or part shade. Z4b
Seed packet $3

Capparis spinosa “Caper Bush”

Capparaceae. 3–5′ sprawling shrub with spines and round leaves. Showy white flowers with long purple stamens. 1″ oval fruit. Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean where the immature flower buds are pickled to make “capers”, a popular food the world over. The young shoots are also eaten and the fruit is pickled in the Middle East. Prefers a warm sunny spot. Seed slow to sprout, 1-2+ months or longer, cold treatment, washing seed with detergent and GA3 may help. Z5–6
Seed packet $3.50

Cardiocrinum giganteum CC7148  “Giant Himalayan Lily”

Liliaceae. The largest of all lilies! Bulb which produces a flowering stem 5–12’+ tall. Glossy heart shaped leaves, up to 20+ trumpet shaped white flowers exhale a sweet scent. Chadwell collection, forests of NW Himalaya, 8250′. This is the elevational and north westerly limit for this impressive plant. A paste of the bulb is applied for dislocated bones. Moist rich soil and part shade. Cold stratify seed. 5–7 years to flower from seed. Z7a
sold out

Casuarina torulosa (= Allocasuarina torulosa) “Forest She-Oak”

Casuarinaceae. Bizarre tree to 50′, often smaller. Brown corky fissured bark and sprays of very fine, descending, needle-like leaves that take on a beautiful coppery-purple color. Yellow orange flowers and small warty cones that remind us of toads. Native to Australia. A gorgeous and useful plant that deserves wider cultivation. Nitrogen fixing and good for building soils. Makes an excellent windbreak. Low maintenence and grows quickly, even in poor soils. Z9a
10–18″ treelet 7+ years old $19.50 (limited)

Ceratonia oreothauma DH07041  “Oman Carob” “Tiyu”

Fabaceae. Dioecious tree 15–25’+. Thick gray-brown fissured bark. Paripinnate leaves with smaller leaflets than C. siliqua. Yellowish flowers with reddish anthers/stigmas. 2–4″ long pods. Dylan Hannon seed collection, Jabal/Buni Habir, Oman, 5300′. Endemic to the eastern Al Hajar Mountains of Oman. Pods and foliage are used as goat fodder. Thought to be the wild ancestor of carob and may prove useful for breeding with standard Carob tree. Z10a? Inquire for plants

Codonopsis sp. BBG China  “Tang Shen”

Campanulaceae. Carrot like perennial root from which graceful twining deciduous vines arise, growing to about 6′. Soft leaves and 1″ yellow green bell shaped flowers. We got our mother plant from the UC Berkeley Gardens years ago but lost the original tag. Overall the plant is larger than the more common C. pilosula. The root is sweet and edible, several Codonopsisspecies are used as general tonics similar to ginseng in Chinese medicine, and a few species are considered magical plants in the Himalayas. Needs a well draining moist soil and something to climb on. Z7a
Seed packet $3.50

Codonopsis bulleyana

Upright herbaceous perennial to 12″. Pleasantly pubescent stems and leaves. Pale-blue tubular flowers that are constricted in the center and flare at the ends. Carrot like edible sweet root. Native to the mountains of Asia. The plant has a skunky cannabis-like smell. Used in traditional medicine like other species with ginseng like properties. Part shade, moist rich soil. Z4a
Plant 3 years old $9.50

Codonopsis cardiophylla

Gentle vine with soft heart-like leaves. Bell shaped flowers ghostly blue in color. Fleshy edible/medicinal roots. Native to the mountains of China. Z4b
Plant 3 years old  $9.50

Codonopsis clematidea Holubec

A delicate twining perennial to 3–4′. Fuzzy blue-green leaves. Large bell-shaped flowers of pale-blue with veins of purple and banded maroon inside. Seed collected by Holubec in Mortravn, Pamir Mountains, Tajikistan, 6300′. The aerial parts of the plant are used in the folk medicine of the region to treat jaundice, hepatitis and other liver conditions. Analysis has revealed a new codonopsine alkaloid along with 13 beneficial compounds found in other species. The thick roots are edible like other species. Prefers a well aerated rich soil, regular moisture, part shade and something to climb on. Dies back to the root in late Summer. Z4b
Plant 3 years old $10.50

Codonopsis convolvulacea “Ludu Dorje”

Rounded perennial tubers with annual twining vines to 8′, narrow leaves. 1.5″ star-shaped flowers, a pure vibrant blue color. Native to the forests and mountains of eastern Burma and southwestern China. Has a strong, musky smell similar to Cannabis. The gorgeous flowers are used for skin conditions and the white tuberous root as a tonic. It is claimed that to those with “spiritual vision” the plant emits a visible glow at dusk! It is rumored to be the “Supreme Herb”. A special decoction made from all parts of the plant is taken by yogis to cure all disease and obtain magical powers, walk on water and fly!! It is also said to be an ingredient in the sacramental “Rainbow Light Pills”, which are known to liberate one from rebirth in the lower realms. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Well worth growing for the flowers alone, prefers part shade, a friend to climb on and rich, well draining soil. The tubers sometimes stay dormant a year. Surface sow seed. Z7a
10 seed $6
Plant/tuber 3 years old $24

Codonopsis meleagris

Upright species to about 12″+. The round bell shaped flowers are a porcelian-blue color with dark-purple to chocolate markings. Fleshy roots edible and medicinal like other species. Another choice rarity form China. Z4b
Plant 3 years old $9.50

Coriaria plumosa  “Feathery Tutu”

Coriariaceae. Low growing plant to 2′ tall with fern like leaves. Strings of white flowers followed by purple berries. A high altitude species from South Island, New Zealand. Coriaria are generally considered highly toxic, but the berries of one New Zealand species are thought edible (though the seeds highly poisonous) and an Ecuadorian species psychoactive. Hosts nitrogen fixing bacteria. Cold stratify seed. Should be hardy to Z8a.
Seed packet $3.50 Inquire for plants

Corydalis taliensis “Wu Wei Cao” “Jin Gou Ru Yi Cao”

Fumariaceae or Papaveraceae. Ornamental perennial to 1.5’+ tall. Blue-green ferny foliage from a short branched rhizome. Raceme of up to 20, curiously spurred, purple to lavender flowers. Native to the forest understory of western Yunnan and Sichuan, China, from 6500–8200′. The whole plant is rich in isoquinoline alkaloids and used in traditional medicine for hepatitis, arthritis and toothache. Other species have been shown to be sedative, analgesic and aid opiate withdrawel. One of the easier Corydalis to grow, prefers part shade and rich soil. Give seed 30+ days cold. Z8a?
Seed packet $3.50

Clematis connata? CC7137

Ranunculaceae. Attractive vine with yellow-white sweetly scented flowers. Chadwell collection, forest edge, 8200′ NW Himalaya. Juice of the leaves is inhaled for sinusitis. Great for an arbor or fence. Cold stratify seed. Z6a
Seed packet $3

Clematis sp. CC6821

Ornamental vine with deep green trifoliate leave. Flowers not yet seen, but sure to be lovely. Chadwell collection Himachel Pradesh, NW Himalaya near 9000′. Perfect to clothe a fence, arbor or tree. Z6?
Plant 7–8 years old $12.50

Crescentia alata “Morro” “Calabash Tree”

Bignoniaceae. Tropical tree to 20′. Nocturnal flowers along the trunk and branches, 4″ gourd-like hard seed pods. Central America. The pods are used to make all manner of containers and utensils. The seeds are high in protein and have a licorice like sweet aftertaste, they are used in El Salvador to make a refreshing horchata drink. The tree is considered an anachronism, it evolved with now extinct gomphotheres (elephants) as the primary seed dispersers. It is now our responsibility to crack the hard seed pod and disperse the seed. Easy to grow. Z10a
Seed packet $2.50

Cryptotaenia japonica v. atroprupurea   “Mitsuba” “Japanese Parsley”

Apiaceae. Upright perennial, 12–18″+ high. The entire plant is handsome shades of bronze, rose and dark purple. Small white flowers. Japanese seed stock. The entire plant is edible and used much like parsley. We find it does best in part shade. Z4b
Seed packet $2.50

Cyperus esculentus v. sativus ‘Barcelona’   “Chufa Nut” “Earth Almond”

Cyperaceae. Nonweedy small perennial sedge grass to 12″. Produces 0.5″ edible tubers. Worldwide distribution. Cultivated for centuries, the tubers are rich in sugars, starch and oil, with a sweet taste similar to coconut. Little known in the U.S., they are popular in Europe, Africa and Asia. This variety is from northern Spain where they are blended with water and sweetener to make the delectable, refreshing and nutritious drink known as “horchata.” Grows just about anywhere, but prefers a well drained moist soil. Noninvasive cultivar, cannot tolerate frost. Z10a
Seedpack of 10 tubers $3

Decaisnea fargesii  “Blue Bean Shrub”

Lardizabalaceae. Deciduous shrub to 20’+. Large pinnate leaves to 3′ long. Pendant racemes of unusual yellowish flowers. Fleshy bean-like pods to 6″+, an amazing reptilian metallic blue color, blue lizard sausage is how we think of them. Opening the pods reveals a slimy alien grub! This is in fact the seeds surrounded by a sweet edible pulp that kids love to slurp. The taste is similar to lychee or rambutan fruit. Native to the forests of China. Now lumped with D. insignis. A greatly unusual edible. Prefers moist rich soil and dappled sun. Cold stratify seed. Z6a
Seed packet $3.50
5 grams seed $12

Dierama igneum “Hairbell” “Faerie’s Wand”

Iridaceae. Clumps of upright iris-like leaves to 3′. Long slender arching stalks bearing pendulous lilac to rose pink bell flowers. Native to the grasslands of eastern South Africa. Grown from wild seed. Dieramaare the embodiment of grace. Likes a bright spot and rich moist soil. Inquire for other species. Z7a
Inquire

Diospyros ramulosa  “Koenoekam” “Karoo Persimmon”

Ebenaceae. Smallish tree to 20’+. Green flower, yellow to purplish edible fruit. This Karoo native persimmon is said to be the best of the wild fruit from the region. Branches used as firesticks. Has potential as a rare fruit crop. Sun and drought hardy. Cold stratify seed. Z7b
sold out

Disporum cantoniense ex DJHC 729

Liliaceae. From underground rhizomes arise asparagus like stalks rich-purple in color and 3-6′ tall. Lanceolate leaves, cream colored tubular flowers, black-purple berries. Our mother plants are from Hinkley collections in China. A forest understory plant that is a giant relative to our native fairy bells. The rhizome is used for fever and the young shoots cooked as a vegetable. Rich moist soil and part to full shade. Z6a
Plant 10 years old $13.50

Dracophyllum traversii  “Mountain Neinei”

Ericaceae or Epacridaceae. Unique blueberry cousin that resembles monocots like Yucca, Aloe or Dracaena . Tree 15–30′ tall, candelabra branches crowned with rosettes of long, recurved leaves, green to purplish red. Panicles of tiny flowers at branch ends. Endemic to cool moist mountain forests and slopes above 2500′, North Island and South Island, New Zealand. Long lived, up to 600 years. The strap like leaves are traditionally used for weaving. In cultivation a bright but cool spot and gritty well draining soil is needed. Should do well in coastal climates and the Pacific Northwest. The tiny seeds need 3 months cold stratification after which germination occurs sporadically over many months. Z7a
sold out

Elaeagnus multiflora “Goumi”

Elaeagnaceae. Ornamental deciduous shrub to 6-10′. Green/silver leaves, small cream colored flowers, sweet juicy edible red berries, rich in antioxidants. China. Ideal permaculture plant-fast growing, fixes nitrogen in the soil, produces and abundance of edible fruit, easily grown, cold and drought tolerant. Not weedy like some species. Sprouts warm but cold stratify for best germination. Z5a.
Seed packet $3

Ficus gasparriniana v. laceratifolia  “Grape Fig” “Guan Mao Rong”

Moraceae. Branched shrub to 6′. Long lacerated leaves, evergreen in tropical climates. Grape size round figs that turn deep-red when ripe. Occurs in forested mountain areas of India and western China, south to Vietnam, from 1,500′ to 6,000′. The small figs are produced in abundance July through December and have a good flavor, best during warm weather. A great companion for anyone who likes unusual fruit. Keep seed warm to sprout. Z7b
5 seed $3

Ficus sp. CC6807

Rare fig species, large upright shrub. Ovate leaves with serrate margins. Collected by Chadwell, 6,900′, Uttaranachal, Kumaon, Central Himalaya. We don’t know much more about this plant, such as fig edibility, etc, so we’ll have to grow these on to find out! Z8? Only a few plants available!
sold out

Gaultheria depressa “Alpine Snowberry”

Ericaceae. Creeping prostate shrub 3–6″ high. Tiny rounded leaves and white bell flowers. 1/2″+ white to pink-red edible fruit. Alpine regions of north west South Island, New Zealand. Seed is distributed by lizards and a species of odd oversized cricket known as “weta” and it is thought that the plant has coevolved with them. A prime edible plant for the rock garden. Acidic mineral soil. Surface sow seed. Z7a
Seed packet $3.50

Gaultheria erecta  “Giant Salal”

Shrub 6–10’+. Oval leaves, white bell flowers and edible purple-black fruit. From the upper elevation cloud forests of Mexico south to the Andes. This giant version of salal prefers part shade to filtered sun and acidic soil. Another interesting choice for the food forest garden. Z9a
Seed packet $3.50

Gaultheria dumicola  “Cong Lin Bai Zhu”

Shrub with graceful arching stems to 2–5′ or more. Large leathery leaves, small reddish flowers and dark purple edible berries. Rare blueberry cousin native to the forests and thickets of Yunnan, China up to 10,000′. Rich acidic soil, part shade. Z7?
Seed packet $4

Gaultheria forrestii

Evergreen shrub 4-5′ tall. 3″ oval leaves on arching stems and sprigs of white flowers. Abundant edible black  berries. Yunnan Province, China. The leaves and fruit have a delectable wintergreen aroma, great for fresh eating and tea. Part to full shade. Does well as a forest understory plant. Moist acidic soil. Z7b
Seed packet $3.50

Gaultheria miqueliana “Japanese wintergreen”

Spreading groundcover 6–10″ tall. Deep veined oval leaves, dark green with reddish hues. White bell flowers and pea size porcelian white berries make a striking contrast to the leaves. Native to Japan. The delicious berries have the strongest wintergreen flavor of any Gaultheriawe’ve tried, truly amazing! An ideal edible groundcover for part to full shade. Well drained acid soil. Z6a
Seed packet $3.50

Gaultheria odorata “Aja-te’es”

2–4′ tall evergreen shrub with slightly hairy alternate oval leaves to 3″. White bell flower and pea-size dark purple fruit. From the higher elevation cloud forests of Chiapas, Mexico. The fruit is eaten and the plant considered medicinal by the Zincatan Maya. A fine exotic for the forest garden. Surface sow. Z8 or 9a
Seed packet $3.50

Gaultheria yunnanensis  “Yunnan Wintergreen”

Rounded shrub to 4’+ with arching branches. Small white flowers and black edible berries. Asian species used in Chinese medicine for arthritis. The leaves contain wintergreen oil. Another choice selection for the forest garden. Filtered light and acidic soil. Z6a
Seed packet $3.50

For additional Gaultheria species see our Chilean , Andean &  Californian offerings

Gentiana sp. CC5932

Gentianaceae. Rosettes of smooth blue-green leaves. Flowers not yet seen, likely blue. A Chadwell collection from the mountains of Tibet at over 13,000′. Unlike some Alpine gentians this one has been easy to grow in well drained gravelly soil. Z5a?
sold out

Gentiana macrophylla “Qin Jiao”

Gentianaceae. Deciduous herbaceous perennial to 1′. Large lanceolate leaves. Clusters of pale green-blue tubular flowers. Mongolia, Russia, and China. This important bitter herb is widely used in Chinese Medicine. Prefers sun to part shade. Z3b
inquire

Girardinaria diversifolia ‘Bhutan’   “Zo ch’a”  “Aloo”  “Giant Himalayan Nettle”

Urticaceae. A strikingly gorgeous tender perennial to 10’+. Large leaves, sometimes entire but often deeply cut palmate. Panicles of yellowish flowers. The entire plant is covered in large stinging prickles, like common nettle on steroids. The sting is intense, but short lived. Seed from eastern Bhutan around 4000′. Cultivated for the high quality long fiber that’s obtained from the stems and used to make everything from rope to paper to fine textiles. The young leaves and flowers are a highly nutritious vegetable, they lose their sting when cooked. Roasted seed is pickled in Nepal. Numerous medicinal applications similar to common nettle. Likes moisture and dappled light that mimics the subtropical Himalayan forests where it is found. Frost tender. Z9b/10a
Seed packet $4

Gladiolus crassifolius

Iridaceae. Bulbous perennial. Annual sword-like leaves, inflorescence to 2–3′ clothed in pink-mauve blossoms with darker markings on the inner petals. Native to the grasslands and mountains of southern Africa. A rare, graceful gladiola that is a worthy addition to any garden. Z7a
Seed packet $3

Heliopsis longipes  “Chilcuague” “Gold Root”

Asteraceae. Spreading groundcover to 10–18″+ tall. 1″ conical yellow flowers. Endemic to the mountains of central Mexico up to 8,000′. The fleshy lateral roots produce a very intense tingling sensation in the lips and mouth when chewed, much stronger thanEchinacea or Spilanthes which have similar properties. Traditionally used for toothache (very effective!) and oral health. Rich in alkamides with impressive analgesic, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal and immune boosting effects. Demand for its insecticidal activity nearly lead to its extinction during World War 2. The pleasant tingling effect from the chewed root can be transferred to other areas of the body and has been used as topical anesthetic and for interesting erotic purposes. We had been seeking seed of this plant for many years and were very excited and honored when a few came to us. We have been propagating since and finally have enough plants to offer, a first introduction. Easy to grow. Z9b?
Plant 2-3 years old $22.50 (limited)

Helichrysum odoratissimum  “Imphepho”

Asteraceae. Highly aromatic shrub with small, fuzzy, silver leaves and terminal clusters of deep yellow blossoms. Native to Southern Africa. Zulu ritual incense that is said to “please the ancestors”. Smoked as a sedative. Closely related species are considered trance inducing. Z8
Seed packet $3.50

Hippophae rhamnoides  “Sea Buckthorn”

Elaeagnaceae. A striking willow-leafed shrub 10-20′. In Autumn the branches are covered in thousands of small edible orange berries. Native to Central Asia. This fruit is very nutritious, rich in vitamin C, A and E as well as EFA’s and the leaves are a source of antioxidant flavonoids. This plant is now an important medicinal fruit crop in western Europe, Asia and Russia, but is gaining popularity in the United States as a nutriceutical and cosmetics ingredient. A highly versatile plant, fixes nitrogen in the soil. Seed germinates best with 30+ days cold, but some germination warm. Unsexed seedlings. Z3a
Seed packet $3
10–20″+ plant 6–7 years old $14.50 (limited)

Ilex paraguariensis ‘Paraguay’   “Yerba Mate” “Ka’a”

Aquifoliaceae. Evergreen tree to 60′. Shiny lanceolate leaves, white flowers and red berries. Cultivated throughout South America. Our plants are grown from seed collected at a very old plantation in Paraguay. The caffeine rich leaves are the national drink of Argentina & Paraguay and have become very popular in the US in recent years. Easy, sun to part shade. Responds well to pruning and can dwarfed. Tolerant of some frost. Seed takes 1-3+ warm to germinate. Z9a
Seed packet $3.75
6-10″ plant 3-4 years old plant $16.50 (limited)

Ilex vomitoria SHL091023.1  “Yaupon”

Evergreen shrub or small tree to 20’+. Divaricate stems, whitish flowers and ornamental red-orange berries. Native to the south eastern US and north eastern Mexico. Another underappreciated stimulating holly. Related to yerba mate and guayusa, the leaves are a rich source of caffeine alkaloids. Once a primary sacred plant of the Cherokee, Creek, Seminole and other tribes. Seed collected by S. Lipe & S. Cody from wild populations at Buxton Woods, Outer Banks, North Carolina. Easy to grow, tolerant of alkaline and salty soils, sun to partial shade. Seed is slow to germinate, cold stratify. May take 1-4+ years to sprout, so be patient. Z6a
Seed packet $3
14–16″+ plant 7+ years old $22.50 (limited, these took 4 years to sprout!)

Ilex vomitoria ssp. chiapensis   “Yaupon”

Upright evergreen tree to 25’+. Small white flowers and purple-red berries. This subspecies is a very curious disjunct population from the threatened pine-oak dry forests of Chiapas, Mexico above 5000′. Perhaps brought there for cultivation in ages long past? A bit larger leaves and more erect habit than US populations and seed is easier to germinate, 3–6+ months warm. The leaves are a rich source of caffeine and were esteemed by numerous tribes in the USA. Prefers bright, filtered light. Z8a/b?
Seed packet $3.50
10–14″+ plant 5+ years old $18.50 (limited)

Indigofera aff. incana

Fabaceae. Dense groundcover, 3″ high. Blue-green leaves, rose-pink flowers. South Africa. Pretty, drought hardy, nitrogen fixer for your perennial polyculture. Z8a
Seed packet $3

Inula magnifica Jurasek  “Magnificent Elecampane”

Asteraceae. Large herbaceous perennial 4–7′ tall with leaves to 2′. Numerous 3″ dandelion like frizzy yellow flowers. Jurasek collection, western Caucasus, 6000′. Easily grown, a great garden specimen. Good mulch plant. Surface sow seed.
Seed packet $3

Lepechinia hastata BK101106.9 “Baja Pitcher Sage”

Labiatae. Herbaceous perennial 2–4′ tall. Aromatic, large, arrow-shaped, blue-green, fuzzy leaves. Terminal inflorescence with numerous bright purple flowers. Spreads by runners, forms extensive colonies. Seed collected from impressive populations basking in the quiet shade of Quercus devia oak trees bordered by an undescribed tuberous Peperomia, Cape Moutains, Baja, 6000′. Similar growth habit and fills the same ecological niche as Salvia spathacea from further north. Interestingly this species also occurs in Hawaii. A beautiful plant, draws hummingbirds and other delightful pollinators. Drought hardy. Z8b
Seed packet $3.50

Lepidium peruvianum ‘Yellow’  “Maca”

Brassicaceae or Cruciferae. A radish or turnip like plant that is the highest altitude cultivar in the world, grown in the Andes at elevations over 14,000 feet. An ancient food/medicine that has been farmed for nearly 6,000 years. Incredibly nutritious, considered an energizing aphrodisiac and immunostimulant. Thrives in very harsh conditions, poor, cold soils with minimal water. Little work has been done growing this plant outside the Andes. Let us know how it grows for you. Shows tolerance for low elevation cultivation. Z5b
Yellow root form Seed packet $4
Red root form Seed packet $4.50

Lilium species – see our Californian offerings

Lobelia fistulosa  “Giant Lobelia”

Campanulaceae. Tobacco-like rosettes of large blue green leaves. Spectacular columnar inflorescence to 10′ with densely arranged pink-purple flowers. Native to forests margins in the mountains of eastern Brazil. An awesome ornamental. Sun and well draining moist soil. Z9a/b?
sold out

Lonicera kamtschatica (=L. caerulea v. kamtschatica) “Honeyberry”

Caprifoliaceae. Deciduous honeysuckle shrub, rounded form to 3–4′. Fuzzy leaves, green-yellow tubular flowers and cylindrical blueberry-like edible berries to 1″+ long. Native to eastern Russia (Kamchatka, Magadan), cultivated for its antioxidant rich fruit. Does really well for us, though the birds often eat most of the delectable sweet-tart berries. Fruits later than L. caerulea. You need 2 or more plants for fruit set. Cold stratify seed 60+ days. Z3a
Seed packet $3.50  inquire for plants

Lycianthes quichensis “Chichol-te”

Solanaceae. Shrub to 8′ with downy heart shaped leaves, large flamboyant lilac flowers and 1″ red tomato-like fruit. Native to the tropical deciduous forests of Central America. The fruit are eaten raw by the Zinacantec Maya. Sun to dappled shade. Z9b
Seed packet $3.25

Lycium barbarum   “Wolfberry” “Gou Qi Zi” “Goji Berry”

Solanaceae. Deciduous shrub with arching branches, 3-5′ tall. Slender linear leaves, pale purple flowers, 1/2-1″ scarlet berries. Native to the Himalayan foothills of central Asia. The leaves are eaten and the berries are one of the most nutritious foods known to man (the highest carotenoid content of any known edible!). A traditional Chinese longevity enhancer and sexual tonic. Easy and drought tolerant. Seed from the traditional growing region of Ning Xia, China. Z6a
Seed packet $3

Lycium barbarum ‘Large Leaf’    “Wolfberry” “Gou Qi Zi” “Goji Berry”

Edible lanceolate leaves to 5″ long and 3″ wide. 1/4 to 1/2″ long red berries. These are seeds from a plant we selected that has extra large leaves, excellent for eating. Though the berries are a little smaller, it fruits more heavily and consistently for us than others we have grown. Z6a
Seed packet $3.75

Lycium barbarum ‘Shanghai Express’   “Gou Qi Zi” Wolfberry” “Gojiberry”

Solanaceae. Deciduous shrub with arching branches and edible berries of great nutritional/medicinal value. An improved Chinese selection with deep red berries that grows true from seed and can fruit in the first year. Z6a
Seed packet $4.25

Lycium berlandieri “Desert Wolfberry” “Desert Goji”

Lightly thorned shrub 2–5′, arching branches, simple gray-green succulent leaves. Small lavender flowers and 1/3″ bright-red round berries. We collected seed south of Tucson, Arizona years ago and a plant has since taken over a part of our greenhouse. Valued by southwest natives as food and medicine. Edible leaves and delicious berries, one of the few palatable species of Lycium from the region. Likely similar in nutritive and medicinal properties to Asian L. barbarum. Extremely drought tolerant. Z9b
10 seed $3.50

Lycium ruthenicum “Chai-Hu” “Black Goji-Berry”

Thorny deciduous shrub with divaricate sprawling branches 3–5’+. Semi-succulent edible leaves. White flowers and shiny black edible berries. Native to arid mountainous regions of India, China and Russia. Seed from Yunnan, China. This is the much desired rare black goji-berry. Has the same adaptogenic and nutritive properties as the more common L. barbarum. Sun and drought hardy. Tolerates alkaline and saline conditions. Prefers a gritty soil and resents overwatering. Z6a
sold out

Malva sylvestris BK07606.1

Malvaceae. 1-3′ plant with round leaves and 2″ mauve-purple flowers with dark purple veins and lavender pollen loved by bees. From seed we collected from rural farmsteads in the hills near Figaro and Montseny Bioreserve, north eastern Spain. Traditionally the flowers and young tender leaves are added to salads while the tops of the plants are steamed and seasoned like kale. Highly nutritious and delicious! Also used as a tea for its soothing demulcent properties. Easy, perennial, but best cut back each season. Will naturalize. Z4a
Seed packet $2.75

Mandragora officinarum “Mandrake”

Solanaceae. Hardy perennial with rosettes of stemless leaves to 12″ long. Greenish bell shaped flowers arise from the center of the plant followed by oval shaped orange berries. Large, thick taproots, often resembling the human form and giving rise to a multitude of myths and legends. Native to southern Europe/Mediterranean. The famed and feared mandrake root, used throughout the ages as aphrodisiac and poison, magical amulet and medicine. Sow in a deep pot or directly in the ground. Prefers rich, alkaline, moist soil with good drainage. The leaves die back and the plant goes dormant by early Summer and begins vegetative growth again in Autumn/Winter. Prefers partial shade. Does well in the rock garden. Seed treated with GA-3, good germination in 30 days. Z5a
inquire for plants

Mandragora turcomanica “Mandrake”

Large perennial taproot with rosettes of 1-2′ leaves and purplish bell flowers. Endemic to a small area of northeastern Iran and Turkmenistan, where it may now be extinct. Traditionally used like other mandrakes. This impressive plant is exceedingly rare, propagation is vital to its survival. Summer dormant. Z5a  inquire

Methysticodendron amesianum  “Culebra Borrachero”

Solanaceae. Large bush or tree to 20′ tall. Dark green linear leaves up to 1.5′ long. Large, hanging, trumpet like white flowers with a split corolla and intoxicating fragrance. This extremely rare plant, endemic to the Sibundoy Valley of Columbia, is thought to likely be a unique Brugmansia mutation. Used as a medicine and dangerous hallucinogen by the Igano and Kamsa Indians. We helped to introduce this plant to cultivation in the U.S. Likes rich moist soil and regular feedings. Tolerant of only mild frost. Z9b/10a
6″+ rooted cutting $26.50 (limited)

Microseris lanceolata “Murnong” “Yam Daisy”

Asteraceae. Perennial dandelion like rosette of toothed linear leaves and yellow flowers. The tuberous roots of this Australian native were an important food of the Aborigines, but the plant is reported to be increasingly scarce. Traditionally pit roasted and said to have a sweet “coconut” flavor. Curiously Murnong’s closest relatives occur in western North America. Another endangered traditional food plant well worth experimenting with. Has done best for us in a sandy soil and full sun. Z8b/9a?
sold out

Morus alba BK151016.6     “Mulberry”

Moraceae. Attractive tree 20–40′. Large foliage provides excellent shade. 1–2″ long purple-black fruit with a superb sweet creamy flavor. Our collection, San Lorenzo, Salta, Argentina, near 5000′. Introduced to Argentina by the Spanish and now widely planted due to its high esteem by both man and bird. Z5
15-20″ Treelet 3+ years old $12.50

Morus  sp. ‘La Loma’     “Mulberry”

Heirloom seed from an ancient tree growing next to the La Loma Adobe–the oldest standing structure in the hills of San Luis Obispo,
CA where we grew up. The adobe was built in the late 1700s, it’s hard to say when the tree was planted but by the huge trunk we’d guess it was it was around that time. Delicious 1″ long purple fruit. Z5?
Seed packet $3.75
inquire for trees

Nectaroscordum tripedale  “Honey Garlic”

Alliaceae or Liliaceae. Robust perennial bulb with annual linear leaves and flower stalk to 2–3′. Amazing umbels of large pendulous bell flowers, rose-pink with cream edging. Rare onion relative from the Caucasus. The leaves and bulb have a garlic scent and are edible. Seed needs 60 days cold to germinate. Z5a
Seed packet $3.50

Nicotiana glauca “Tree Tobacco”

Solanaceae. Perennial shrub or small tree to 20′. Large, leathery, glaucus blue leaves. Clusters of tubular yellow flowers attract hummingbirds. Said to be native to the southern Andes, but is now naturalized all the way into central California. Considered erroneously to be invasive, but it only grows on disturbed ground, hence its abundance along roadsides and construction areas. Does not contain nicotine, but the bioactive analog anabasine. Widely used as a sacred tobacco, makes an interesting smoke. Z9a
Seed packet $3

Nicotiana rustica ‘Ancient’    “Tobacco”

This seed came to us from a friend who received it as a very special wedding gift. The seed was discovered in a 1000 year old urn at an archaeological dig on Vancouver Island. An amazing relic, it has proven highly viable, we grew out robust plants to 3′. This is the first generation seed from this ancient sacred tobacco. Z9a-b?
Seed packet $5

Nicotiana rustica ‘Kessu’    “Tobacco”

Small tobacco to 2-3′ with round leaves and yellow green tubular flowers. N. rustica is the most potent tobacco, having the highest nicotine content, making an excellent insecticide and shamanic smoke. This specific strain, Kessu, is the most northernly strain ever recorded, growing in central Finland just 400 miles from the Arctic Circle! Z8b?
Seed packet $4

Nicotiana rustica ‘Mohawk’   “Tobacco”

This heirloom tobacco strain comes to us from the Six Nations Reserve of the Eastern U.S and Canada, from the Iroqouis Confederacy: the original North American democracy. Z9b Seed packet $4

For additional Nicotiana species see our Chilean & Andean offerings

Nymania capensis “Klapperbos”

Meliaceae. Upright shrub to 14′ tall. Leathery linear leaves. Pink/red flowers and white to pink-red inflated fruits with a silky sheen, like a Chinese lantern. Unusual neem relative native to the Little Karoo, South Africa. The Nama roasted and powdered the root to make an effective ointment for wound healing. Root tea was used for stomach disorders and the crushed aromatic leaves inhaled for headache. Shown to have insecticidal and antifeedant properties like neem and could be a good alternative for colder or dryer areas. Cold stratify seed. Z8a
5 seed $3 Inquire for plants

Nylandtia spinosa “Skilpadbessie”

Polygalaceae. Showy spiny shrub to 3′. Small oval leaves and pink to purple flowers. Abundant round red edible berries. Said to be a favorite of wild tortoises and birds. A must for exotic fruit connoisseurs. Native to the coastal dunes of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The leaves and stems are made into tea to aid digestion, treat colds and as a generel tonic. Seeds can take several seasons to germinate, so be patient. Smoke treatment may help. Z8a
5 seed $3.50

Ocimum canum ‘Malawi’    “African Wild Basil”

Labiatae. Small basil with hairs on the stems and the undersides of the pale green leaves. Spikes of white flowers. Seed collected in Malawi by B. Fahrer. Strong and sharp citrus/mint scent and flavor. Used as a tea for fever and parasites. Stored with grains to repel insects. Z10b
Seed packet $2.75

Origanum acutidens “Dwarf Turkish Oregano”

Labiatae. Dwarf shrub with aromatic orbiculate leaves. Forms compact cushions 4–8″ high. Deep pink flowers from yellow-green bracts excite all manner of pollinators. Pavelka collection, stony slopes, Karagol Dag, Turkey, 6600′. A rare, choice little oregano species for the rock garden. Drought hardy. Z7?
Seed packet $3.50

Paeonia ostii  “Feng Dan Bai”

Paeoniaceae. “Tree” paeony, woody stems to 5′. Pinnate foliage, white or rarely pale pink flowers 6–10″ across with a sweet musky scent. Rare species from the deciduous forests of Henan, Shaanxi, and Hunan, China. Overcollection for medicine has lead to a disappearance of wild populations in all but Henan. Cultivated on a large scale in Sichuan and Anhui for the root bark which is used for wounds, as an antifungal, antispasmodic and to increase circulation in the brain (making it something of a “smart drug”). The flower petals may be cooked and eaten like similar species. Rich soil and bright shade. For best germination the seed needs 4 months warm followed by 4 months cold. Z4a
sold out

Paeonia tenuifolia ssp. biebersteiniana “Fern-leaf Peony”

Herbaceous rhizomatic species 1–2′ tall with fern-like dissected leaves, grey green in color. 3″+ deep crimson flowers with yellow anthers. This subspecies has slightly thicker leaflets and is endemic to open slopes of Stavropol, northern Caucasus. From Pavelka seed. Well draining soil and sun. Z3?
sold out

Peperomia pellucida  “Lingua de Sapo” “Shiny Bush” “Pansit-pansitan”

Piperaceae. Annual succulent 5–15″+ tall, shiny heart shaped leaves, yellow-green flower spikes. Found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. The entire plant has an attractive aromatic scent when crushed. A highly versatile panacea, it is used for wound healing, skin & eye problems, headaches, colds & coughs, fevers, sore throat, rheumatism, upset stomach, as a topical pain killer, diuretic and for kidney and prostate problems. In Brazil it is used to lower cholesterol. Studies in India suggest that extracts of the plant have psyschoactive diazepam-like effects. Pharmocological research has shown the plant to have analgesic, antifungal, anticancer and antiinflammatory properties and broad spectrum antibiotic actions. The leaves are also very tasty and are popular in salads and stir-fries in Asia. Surface sow seed. Prefers warmth and filtered sun. Reseeds easily. Z10a
Seed packet $4

Pernettya coriacea

Ericaceae. Fabulous evergreen to 4′. Densely arranged small green leaves. Clusters of white bell flowers adorn the branch tips , inflated 1/2″ purple-black berries. High elevation cloud forest and paramo, Cartago Province, Costa Rica. The current questionable trend in taxonomy is to clump this along with nearly every other Pernettya from the Americas into the bloated P. prostrata or even Gaultheria myrsinoides. The berries are sweet and seem highly edible, but we caution that other Pernettya are said to cause inebriation or delirium if eaten in excess. Taxonomic lumping has further confused which species are edible and which potentially toxic. Sun to part shade. Z8b
Seed packet $3
For additional Pernettya species see our Chilean & Andean offerings

Phlomis tuberosa

Labiatae. Hardy herbaceous perennial 3–5’+ tall. Dark green fuzzy leaves and whorls of pale purple flowers. Eurasian species. The large tuberous roots were reportedly eaten by the Kalmyks, probably after some treatment. Makes quite a show when in bloom, drawing all manner of pollinators. Sun and drought tolerant. Z5a
Seed packet $3.25
1 gram seed $8

Physolochaina orientalis “Hua Shan Shen”

Solanaceae. Herbaceous perennial to 12″+. Thick, tuberous roots and spherical clusters of lavender colored tubular flowers. Scattered throughout the mountains of eastern Europe and China. Rich in tropane alkaloids like its close kin Henbane, Belladonna and Mandrake. Used in Chinese Medicine as a sedative and for cough. Needs a gritty well draining soil. Goes dormant mid-summer. Z4a
Plant 4+ years old $12.50

Plantago coronopus “Minutina”

Plantaginaceae. Herbaceaous perennial to 12″. Rosettes of slender frilled leaves. Coastal Europe to north Africa. The crunchy leaves are an heirloom green once favored by the Italian and French. Great in salads or blanched. Regular garden culture. Z6a
Seed packet $2.75

Polygonatum kingianum “Dian Huang Jing” “King Solomon’s Seal”

Liliaceae. Rhizomatic perennial with upright annual stems 5–9’+ tall. Whorls of slender leaves with small terminal tendrils that help the plant climb amongst shrubs. Orange tubular flowers with yellow-green tips bloom from the leaf axils. Forests and thickets of southern China. Contains novel spirostanol saponins and triterpenoid ginsenosides. The root is used in Chinese Medicine for lung conditions, fatigue and to increase appetite. The young shoots may be edible. Considered by many the most beautiful of the Solomon’s Seals. Dappled shade. Cold stratify seed. Z6a
Seed packet $3.50

Polygonatum zanlanscianense  “Hu Bei Huang Jing” “Giant Solomon’s Seal”

Creeping rhizome with annual stems to 6’+ tall bearing whorled leaves with tendrilled tips. White to purplish tubular flowers tipped green dangle from the stem nodes. Black berries. Mountain forests of China up to 9,000′. The rhizome contains saponins with anticancer activity. The Spring shoots may be edible. Part shade and moist soil. Z6a
Plant 5+ years old $12.50

Primula aff. vialii JJH071003

Primulaceae. Deciduous rosettes of lanceolate leaves. 12–18″ flower spike of densely packed lavender blue flowers with red calyxes. From Halda collection, wet meadows, Mali Kha, north east Myanmar (Burma), 12,000′. This is an incredibly beautiful plant when in blossom and evokes praise from all who behold it. Surface sow seed. Z5b
Seed packet $3.50

Prunus tomentosa  “Nanking Cherry”

Rosaceae. 3–6’+ deciduous shrub with 1–2″ ovate leaves. Pale pink blossoms and small bright red fruit with a delicious sweet-tart flavor. Native to and long cultivated throughout Asia. Planted as an ornamental/edible windbreak. The cherries are used for all manner of preserves, juice and wine. A hardy and productive plant. Cold stratify seed. Z3a
5 seed $2.50
25 seed $10

Psoralea esculenta (=Pediomelum esculentum) “Tipsin” “Indian Breadroot”

Fabaceae. Perennial to about 12″ with downy stems and compound elaves, blue clover like flowers. Forms rounded edible tubers to 4″. Native to the prairies and woodlands of North Dakota and Wisconsin to Missouri. The roots were a staple food for the tribes throughout its range. In the early 1800s there was a failed attempt at introducing it as a food crop in Europe. A great multifunctional garden addition, drought hardy and nitrogen fixing. Knick and soak seeds to sprout. Z4a
inquire

Psoralea hypogaea (=Pediomelum hypogaeum) “Little Indian breadroot”

Short perennial to 3″ with palmately compound leaves and clusters of small clover-like purple flowers, said to have a lemony scent. Endemic to the black soil praries of Texas. The 3″ tuberous roots are highly edible being a good protein source. Drought hardy and nitrogen fixing, this little-known native food deserves a place in our gardens. Scarify and soak seeds for best germination. Z5?
Seed packet $3.50

Rhaponticum carthamoides “Lujza” “Maralroot”

Asteraceae. Spineless thistle like plant 2-5′ tall with violet colored flowers. Native to regions of southern Siberia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan and Xingjiang China. The plant is long lived, up to 150 years. The root is traditionally used to stimulate physical and sexual energy and as a kidney and liver tonic. Modern studies show it to be a very powerful adaptogen and it is now widely cultivated in Russia and eastern Europe. Easily grown as a garden plant. Extremely cold hardy, Winter dormant. Stratify seed 30 + days. Z3b
Seed packet $3.50

Rheum acuminatum CC7493  “Pongaju” “Xin Ye Da Huang” “Dwarf Himalayan Rhubarb”

Polygonaceae. Slender perennial rhizome, annual rosette of 5–8″ heart shape with pointed tips, dark green with red-purple undersides. Lax flower spike to 3′ with dark red flowers. Chadwell collection near 13,000′, borderlands of central Tibet. A small member of the fascinating medicinal Himalayan rhubarbs. Leaf petioles are pickled and eaten. Well draining moist soil. Z6a?
Plant 4 years old $14.50

Rheum australe CC7492   “Akase Chuk” “Zang Bian Da Huang” “Himalayan Rhubarb”

Thick perennial rhizomes, annual rounded leaves to 12″ or more. Flowering stem to 4′ bearing purplish flowers. Collected at 13,200′. The leaf stems are used like common rhubarb and the root as an anitinflammatory, purgative, laxative, and tonic. Source of a yellow dye. Easy to grow, rich soil and sun. Z6a.
Plant 3-4 years old $13.50

Rosa maximowiczii  “Ussuri Rose”

Rare climbing rose, clusters of fragrant white flowers followed by red edible fruits. Wild seed from the Ussurian region of eastern Russia. Z4a
Seed packet $3

Rosa roxburghii  “Cili” “Sweet Chestnut Rose”

Stout shrub 4–8′ tall. Thorned branches, long pinnate leaves. 2″+ pale pink to purple-pink flowers, sweetly scented. Unusual orange-yellow fruit blushing red, globose to 1.5″+ and covered in small prickles. Native to southwest China. The fruit can be eaten fresh with a mild pineaple-like flavor. Traditionally made into a jam and wine, the dried fruit is brewed into a sweet tea that is said to strengthen all faculties and enhance longevity. The leaves are used as a green tea substitute. The fruit is rich in minerals, vitamin C and E, beneficial polyphenols, polysaccharides and SOD. Studies have shown the fruit is a strong antioxidant with anticancer potential, cardiovascular benefits and cognitive enhancement. Easy to grow, sun to part shade, rich, moist soil. We offer seed grown plants from strains selected for their darker fruit color and medicinal value. Z6a
6–12″ plant 3-4 years old $14.50

Rubus calycinoides “Taiwanese Creeping Raspberry”

Rosaceae. Evergreen thornless groundcover with round crinkled foliage that turns a copper hue. Sweet yellow-orange raspberries. Native to Taiwan. Agreeable plant for the edible landscape. In the right conditions it bears a profusion of fruit in August. Cold stratify seed. Z5b
Seed packet $3

Rubus ludwigii  “Itshalo ” “African Purple Raspberry”

Raspbery-like shrub with glaucus stems and hooked prickles. Dark green leaves with white undersides. Pink flowers and dark purple fruits with bluish blush. South Africa. In addition to the edible berries, the Zulu used the root for stomach ache. Could be useful for raspberry breeding. Potentially weedy. Cold stratify seed. Z8a
Seed packet $3

For additional Rubus species see our California page

Sagittaria latifolia “Arrowhead” “Wapato”

Alismataceae. Aquatic plant with arrow shaped leaves and small white flowers. Forms corms to 2″. Native to North America. The crisp and tasty corms were a food for indigenous folks wherever they occured. Easily grown and harvested in wide shallow containers with a layer of soil on the bottom and a 6″ covering of water. Harvest in the Fall after the foliage dies back. Seeds can be started in partially submerged pots. Z5a
Seed packet $2.50

Salvia candidissima “Turkish Sage”

Labiatae. Spreading rosettes of downy white leaves 1–2′ tall. Abundant creamy flowers. Pavelka collection, Dedegol Dag, Turkey, 5600′. This sage has a very appealing scent. Contains novel diterpenes and the essential oil shows antioxidant activity. Drought hardy, needs sun and gritty soil. Z8b?
Seed packet $3.75

Salvia glutinosa

Herbaceous sage to 3’+ tall. Sagitate leaves, spires of large pale yellow flowers that have a fine speckling of red-purple. Our mother plant comes from seed collected by a New York Botanical Garden expedition to Georgia. The leaves contain some unique terpenoids and are used as a flavoring for wines. Easy to grow, cold hardy. Z5a
Seed packet $3.50

Salvia hispanica  “Chia”

Herbaceous annual to 2-4′. Dark green leaves and spikes of vivid blue flowers. Central America. The classic chia, one of the most important staple foods of Mesoamerican civilizations. The whole plant has long been used for a variety of medicinal applications and the nutrient packed tiny seeds have the highest omega-3 fatty acid content of any food. Easy to grow.
Z10a Seed packet $2 / 1 ounce $5  See California page for other Chia

Salvia miltiorrizha “Dan Shen”

Herbaceous perennial sage 1-2′ tall. Hairy divided leaves and purple flowers. Native to China where the thick red roots are used in traditional medicine to enhance circulation, tonify the liver and as an effective calming sedative. Easy to grow, sun to part shade. Great in garden borders. Z7b
Seed packet $3

Salvia nubicola CC6306

Rosettes of strongly aromatic hairy sagittate leaves. 2-3′ spikes of yellow flowers with flared bottom lip and purple speckled nose. Collected by C. Chadwell 9500′ Himachel Pradesh, India. Used in for toothache, fevers, and liver health. Easy, sun to part shade. Z6b
Seed packet $3.25

Salvia przewalskii Pavelka   “Dan Shen”

Herbaceous sage to 12″+. Large pubescent leaves, deep purple flowers. From seed collected by Pavelka at 11,200′ in the Zhongdian Mountains, Yunnan, China. Used traditionally the same as S. miltiorrhiza, to stimulant circulation, as a liver protective and sedative. Easy, prefers sun and regular garden soil. Dies back to the roots in Winter. Z7a
Plant 4 years old $8.50

Salvia aff. przewalskii CC5795  “Black Blossomed Sage” “Dan Shen”

From the perennial root arise large deep green annual leaves to 12″+. The flower stalk reaches 2′ and bears remarkable black/purple flowers. A Chadwell collection, Solu Khumbu, Nepal, 12,700′. This plant is similar to S. przewalskii and the red roots likely have the same hepatoprotective and sedative properties. This has the darkest colored flowers of any sage we’ve seen, mysteriously alluring. Sun to part shade. Z7a?
Seed packet $3.50

Salvia valentina  “Gallocresta”

Diminutive species, forms a 4″ rosette of rugose scalloped leaves. Flower stalk to 6–8″ bearing pale blue-purple flowers. An endangered species endemic to Spain, seed from Sierra de Segura, 5600′. The whole plant has is wonderfully aromatic and is used medicinally. Sun and gritty soil. Z8?
Seed packet $3.50
For additional Salvia species see our Andean & Californian offerings

Satureja spinosa  “Crete Mountain Savory”

Labiatae. Lightly spined, pygmy shrub that forms a cushion 4–6″ high and 10″+ wide. Small, densely arranged aromatic leaves similar to thyme in scent. White-pink flowers completely cover the plant late summer, driving bees into a blissful frenzy. Endemic to the mountain massifs of the southern Aegean (Crete and nearby islands), from 4000–7000’+. Rich in medicinal terpenes, used as a culinary herb much like winter savory. Prefers full sun and a well draining rocky soil. Perfect for dry borders or the rock garden. Z5b
Seed packet $3.50

Schotia afra  “Boer-Bean”

Fabaceae. Small tree to 15′ with gnarled trunk, pinnate leaves and clusters of showy red flowers. Bean like pods with large seeds. Native to South Africa. The bean-size seeds are eaten fresh when green or cooked when mature, said to be quite tasty. The bark of Schotia brachypetalais decocted for hangover. Excellent ornamental, drought hardy. Z9a
5 seed $3

Scorzonera austriaca “Russian Salsify”

Asteraceae. Rosettes of slender blue-green leaves. Pale lemon yellow flowers on 10–18″ stalks. Seed from Plastovsky Dist., Chelybinsk Region, Russia. The young shoots and delicious carrot-like roots are eaten cooked. Possibly weedy.
Z3?
Seed packet $3.25

Silene inflata “Stridolo” “Sculpit”

Caryophyllaceae. Herbaceaous perennial to 2′. Blue-green linear leaves, unique white flowers with inflated green calyxes. Heirloom edible green from Italy, the young leaves and shoots are added to salads or steamed. An easy garden plant. Z6b.

Silene undulata (=Silene capensis) “Xhosa Dream Herb”

A low growing perennial with soft pubescent leaves, succulent roots and unusual white tubular flowers. Native to South Africa. The downy leaves are smoked as a tobacco and the Xhosa have made use of the roots to induce “dreaming.” A nice addition to the rock garden or borders. Surface sow the seed. Easy, drought tolerant. Z8b
Seed packet $3.50
Plant 2+ years old $12.50

Silybum eburneum “Silver Milkthistle”

Asteraceae. Annual thistle to 4’+. Spiny green leaves and large deep-violet flowers attract all manner of beneficial insects. A little known milkthistle with a limited distribution around the Mediterranean. There is reason to believe that it may be a better source of the powerful liver protective silymarin than the common milkthistle; S. marianum. All parts of the plant are edible, the roots can be eaten raw, boiled or roasted. The seeds can be ground or germinated for sprouts. Young Spring shoots can be cooked, the leaves can be trimmed of spines and steamed like spinach or added raw to salads. The stems can be peeled, soaked overnight to remove bitterness and then cooked. The flower heads can even be prepared like artichokes. Easy to grow, potentially weedy. Z6–7?
Seed packet $2.75

Sinopodophyllum emodi    “Gui Jiu”  “Asian Mayapple”

Berberidaceae. Rhizomatic perennial with annual umbrella like leaves held 12–18″ above the ground. The leaves are deeply lobed and often emerge in the spring with a purple-black mottling, a wonderful trait that is retained as the leaf matures in some clones. Pink flowers and egg shaped red fruit which is reportedly edible, though the seeds should be considered poisonous. Seed collected by V. Holubec, Zhongdian, Yunnan, China, 11,000′. Endangered species. Toxic, but widely used in oriental medicine. Has strong antitumor properties. A forest understory plant, prefers some shade, rich moist soil. Z6a
inquire

Sophora flavescens  “Ku Shen”

Fabaceae. Sub-shrub to 3–5′. Cylindrical panicles of creamy yellow flowers. Dies back to the roots in cold climates. Native to eastern Asia. The roots are used in Chinese Medicine to clear heat, and studies have shown it to relieve chronic itching and stimulate hair growth. An attractive nitrogen-fixer for the medicinal landscape. Plant near the base of fruit trees. Knick and soak seed. Z4a
sold out

Stachys affinis  “Choro-Gi” “Crosne” “Chinese Artichoke”

Labiatae. Fuzzy herbaceous plant to 12″, spreading by underground runners and resembling common mint. Pearlescent grub-like edible tubers, about the size of a small finger.  Native to Asia, but grown as a gourmet vegetable in France for some time. The crisp sweet tubers, similar to water chestnuts in flavor, are excellent fresh or cooked. In Japan they are popular pickled. Easy, prefers sun to shade, a rich moist soil and room to run. The tubers are formed and harvested in Autumn after the plant has gone dormant. Z6a
Plant $6.50 or 3 for $16

Sutherlandia frutescens “Cancer Bush”

Fabaceae. A small attractive shrub up to 3′ tall. Hairy silver leaves divided into numerous small leaflets. Large crimson colored flowers followed by inflated, bladder like seed pods. Native to South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. One of the most important South African medicinals, the leaves and young stems are a panacea, utilized for treating stomach ailments, cancers, colds, diabetes, inflammations, liver and kidney cleansing, etc. Seeds and leaves of this adaptogen are even smoked as a dagga substitute in Namaqualand. Easy to grow, prefers good drainage and regular feedings. Z8a-b
10 seed $3.50

Tagetes micrantha BK101106.11  “Anis”

Asteraceae. A delightful small annual marigold 2–12″ high. Thin lacy foliage and small yellow flowers. High mountains of southern Baja. The entire plant has a sweet anise scent/flavor, used by locals as a refreshing carminative tea. A personal favorite, naturilize it in your garden! Z9b
Seed packet $3.50

Tarchonanthus camphoratus “Mofalana” “Leleshwa”

Asteraceae. Tree to 30′. Camphor scented green leaves with pale velvety undersides. Dense panicles of creamy flowers at the branch ends ripen to wooly seedheads. Native to southern Africa. Leaf tea is used for cough, fresh leaves chewed for toothache. The leaves were reported to be smoked by the Khoi and San, said to be mildly “narcotic”. Zulu women once perfumed their hair with the leaves. Oil from the plant is reported to be an excellent tick repellent. Good soil stabilizer, deters insects and survives fire. Possibly weedy in disturbed areas. Germinates in 8 weeks, faster with smoke treatment. Z9a
Seed packet $3

Taraxacum faeroense “Red-leafed Dandelion”

Asteraceae. Compact rosettes of dark green-red to black-purple leaves and yellow flowers on 1–2″ stalks. Western Europe. A beautiful species that should have the same medicinal properties as common dandelion. Leaf color is darkest in bright light. Z5?
Seed packet $2.75

Tigridia chiapensis

Iridaceae. Bulb with pleated grass-like leaves 6–10″ tall.  Alluring 3 petalled white flowers with yellow centers and maroon blotches. Moist meadows of Chiapas, Mexico up to 9000′. The bulbs of many Tigridiaare edible and were cultivated by the Aztecs. Sun and well draining soil kept wet during the summer growing season, dry during the winter dormancy. Z8b
Plant/bulb 4 years old $7.50 or 3 for $17.50

Ugni myricoides

Myrtaceae. Evergreen shrub 5–8′. Pendant white-pink bell flowers transform into 1/3–1/2″ dark rose berries. A huckleberry-like cloud forest plant from Chiapas, Mexico south into scattered regions of South America. Confusingly sometimes called Chilean black guava, though it’s neither a true guava nor Chilean like its close kin U. molinae. The berries are sweet and edible, but have a stronger flavor than U. molinae. Hybridizing the two might lead to interesting progeny. More tolerant of tropical conditions than the temperate U. molinae. Part shade, moist rich soil. Z9a/b
Seed packet $3.50

For additional Ugni species see our Chilean offerings

Urera baccifera  “Chichicaste” “Ortiga Brava”

Urticaceae. Dioecious pachycaul shrub to small tree, 4–15′ tall. Serrated leaves 5–10″ across. Purplish inflorescence, clusters of white to pink edible fruit, said to be spongy yet juicy. A surprisingly attractive nettle relative from tropical Central and South America. The swollen trunk and leaves are covered in prickles that have a relatively mild and short lived sting similar to common nettle. The leaves of the plant are edible and have been shown to have antiinflammatory and antiviral activity. Natives of Costa Rica have been known to flagellate themselves with the plant to keep warm when hiking the high mountains. The stems were made into paper by the Aztec. The plant produces pearl bodies on its leaves for several species of ants with which it has a mutualistic relationship. Prefers well draining moist soil, tolerant of drier succulent conditions as well. Easy to bonsai. Z10a
Seed packet $3.25

Vaccinium angustifolium Maine   “Wild Blueberry”

Ericaceae. Deciduous low spreading plant to 1′ high. White flowers and delicious pea- sized blueberries. Seed from large monotypic populations in Maine. This is the famous lowbush blueberry. The large blueberry industry in eastern North America assures protection of the wild habitats where this plant is dominant, where as cultivation of the highbush blueberry is predicated on traditional, and potentially destructive, farming techniques of land conversion. Sun and acidic moist soil. Makes a great groundcover. Give seed 30–60 days cold. Z5a
Seed packet $3

Vaccinium caespitosum “Dwarf Bilberry”

Ericaceae. Small creeping species that forms carpets just a few inches high with deciduous leaves that turn red in autumn. Pink to red urn shaped flowers and sweet blue berries. Seed from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. A delightful miniature. Sun and moist acidic soil. Z4
inquire

Vaccinium consanguineum  “Paramo Huckleberry”

4-12′ evergreen shrub with densely packed glossy blue green-leaves 1-2″ long. Masses of white tinged-pink bell flowers swell to become 1/3″ red then blue-black berries when ripe. Native to the high elevation cloud forest and paramo in Cartago Province, Costa Rica. If picked early the berries have a disagreeable flavor, but once fully ripe they are quite delicious. Sun to part shade. Cold stratify for best germination. Z8b
Seed packet $3.50

Vaccinium cylindraceum  “Azores Blueberry”

Ericaceae. Large erect shrub, semi-evergreen. Lanceolate leaves to 2″. Attractive bark mottled green and brown. Eye-catching, pendulous clusters of 1/2″ long cylindrical red flowers. Cylindrical blue-black berries of fine flavor. Endemic to the Azores Islands. Undoubtedly one of the prettiest of the genus. Said to be very drought hardy and tolerant of neutral soils. Sun to part shade. Cold stratify seed 60+ days. Z8a
sold out

Vaccinium gaultheriifolium

Evergreen shrub with arching branches, 6–12 tall. Large elliptical leaves, clusters of white to pink bell flowers adorn the branch tips followed by pea-sized edible berries. Native to the mountain forests of the eastern Himalayas, up to 9000′. An elegant and rarely cultivated blueberry. Dappled sun and well drained rich soil. Cold stratify seed. Z7a.
Seed packet $3.50

Vaccinium reticulatum BK10930.4  “Ohelo Berry”

Evergreen shrub 1–4′ tall. Rounded leaves that vary from dark green to blue green. New growth is an inciting bright red color. Yellowish to rich pink bell flowers followed by large juicy berrries. The berries may reach 3/4″ in diameter and vary in color from bush to bush, from yellow to orange to pink to red to purple to blue black, both shiny and glaucus. The flavor of the berries is variable, from slightly insipid to tangy to pure sweet. Must have the greatest diversity of any single blueberry species. This Hawaiin native is a primary pioneer species on the lava flows and able to withstand significant ash falls. Occurs from 2,000′ to 12,000′. This is a gorgeous plant that is well worth cultivating in new regions for its marvelous berries. Needs a mineral rich acid soil. Z7?
Seed packet $4

Vaccinium retusum  “Dwarf Huckleberry”

Evergreen subshrub to 1–2″+ high. Rounded glossy leaves. White-pink flowers, clusters of small black berries of excellent flavor. Native to western China, Bhutan, Nepal, etc where it often occurs as an epiphyte. Z6?
Seed packet $3.50

For additional Vaccinium species see our Andean &  Californian offerings

Valeriana jatamansi (= V. wallichii)  “Indain valerian” “Mushkbala”

Valerianaceae. A delightful low growing plant with basal rosettes of soft heart shaped leaves and a 12″ flower stalk with small white flowers. Native to the temperate forests of the western Himalayas into the mountains of Afghanistan up to 10,000′. The plant has a sweet aroma and is a source of the legendary spikenard oil. The rhizomes are rich in valepotriates, reported to be effective for leprosy. It also has sedative actions like other valerian species. Does best in part shade and moist soil. Z7b
Seed packet $3.50
Plant 2-3 yeaars old $9.50

For additional Valeriana species see our Chilean & Andean offerings

Vigna subterranea  “Jugo Bean” “Bambara Ground Nut” “Izidlubu”

Fabaceae. Annual groundcover with trifoliate leaves to 6″ high. Yellow pea flowers that push into the ground once fertilized. Abundant subterranean pods each containing a single rounded seed 1/4–1/2+ in diameter. The seed color ranges from cream, brown, red-brown or black. An ancient cultivar endemic to Africa. Considered amongst the most under estimated, under developed of world crops. Immature seed consumed raw or boiled. Ripe seeds are boiled or pounded into a flour and fried, added to soups or made into breads or pudding. High in soluble fiber, carbohydrates and up to 19% protein with higher levels of amino acids than other legumes. A nitrogen fixer, the plant is commonly interplanted with pumpkin and maize. Mounding is said to improve yields. 4 months from sowing to harvest. Needs a loose, friable, well draining soil, bright light and warmth to thrive. Produces well in poor soil, heat and drought. Simple selection of larger seeds is reported to increase size up to 300%! Displaced by peanuts (Arachis hypogea) thoughout much of its traditional range, Vigna subterranea deserves to be widely grown wherever conditions permit. We offer a mix a different colored South African landraces. Z10a
5 seed $6

Xylotheca kraussiana “Isichobane”

Flacourtaceae. Multi-stemmed shrub or tree to 25′. Soft dark-green leaves. Large white flowers exude a lusciously sweet scent. Woody fruits split to reveal reddish black seeds covered by a sweet edible red aril. Larval food for several butterflies. South Africa. The Zulu made “love charm emetics” from the roots, though it is hard to imagine what exactly that is. Easy, showy and drought hardy-perfect for the edible landscape. Keep seed warm to sprout in 2–4 weeks. Z8a/b
5 seed $3

Zingiber chrysanthum CC7460  “Adrak-vanya” “Golden Flowered Ginger”

Zingiberaceae. Rhizomatic perennial with leafy annual stems 4–6′ tall. Orchid-like creamy-yellow to orange flowers borne at the base of the stems. Brilliant crimson-red globose seed pods remain long after the stems go dormant. Chadwell collection from the borderlands of central Tibet. The ginger-like rhizomes have been shown to have antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties and are used traditionally for digestion and as a painkiller. Well draining soil an part shade. Z9 or lower if well mulched
Plant/rhizome 2-3 years old $16.50

Zingiber mioga “Myoga Ginger”

Perennial rhizome with annual leafy stems 2–3′ tall. Orchid-like pale yellow flowers bloom at soil level. Native to the forests of eastern China, Korea and Japan where the fresh shoots are an esteemed vegetable and flowers buds a delectable addition to soups and eggplant dishes. Contains anticancer constituents. Rich moist soil and part shade. The hardiest of the ginger, especially if well mulched. Rhizome divisions. Z6a
Plant/rhizome $15.50

This website is not a guide to usage; edible, medicinal, or otherwise. We sell all plants and seeds strictly for growing purposes. Placing an order commits to an understanding and agreement to these terms.

We are not currently taking payment for our excessively lengthy & highly informative catalog. We are in the slow laborious process of updating it and do not currently have a functional hardcopy to mail. Our apologies to those who have sent payment in the past few months–we will eventually get you a copy!  For the time being you can email me at benkamm@monitor.net and request PDFs of the various catalog sections (specify your interest: Cactaceae, Trichocereus, Other Succulents & Xerophytes, Andean Accessions, Other Medicinals & Edibles (includes CA Natives), or ALL )

Seed deliveries anywhere in the world. Plants-domestic orders only.

Sacred Succulents, PO Box 781, Sebastopol, CA 95473 USA Email: sacredsucculents@hushmail.com

To receive our periodic (every 4-6 weeks) emails listing new plants & seeds, specials, news from our gardens, greenhouses & travels sign up at – http://lists.sonic.net/ mailman/listinfo/ sacredsucculents