Gloriosa Daisy (Rudbeckia Hirta)
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$1.00 - $5.60
$1.00
per item
Gloriosa Daisy is an U.S. Native Wildflower that was first bred by Alfred Blakeslee and then introduced to commerce by Washington Atlee Burpee in 1957 at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Flower Show. It's brilliantly bright display of red/orange flowers that are bordered with yellow make it perfect as a cut flower. It also produces stems and flowers that are double the size of the other Rudbeckia Hirta wild varieties! Gloriosa Daisy flowers attract many pollinators such as bats, honey and native bees, birds, and is also a larval host plant for such as Bordered Patch, Gorgone Checkerspot, and many other species of butterflies.
Scientific Name: Rudbeckia hirta
Ease of Growing: Easy
Grown as: Biennial
Maturity(Blooms): Early Summer to Late Fall
Hardiness: Hardy. Black-Eyed Susan can tolerate light frost and will sometimes survive a hard frost or snow.
Crops: Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season: Short, Long
Growing Conditions: Cool, Warm. Black-Eyed Susan tolerate a wide variety of climates but will do best in full sun, well-draining rich soil, and cool temperatures. The plants will often stop blooming in hot weather.
Outdoor Growing Temp: 55°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 60°F. Black-Eyed Susan seeds can be planted as soon as the soil warms up to around 60˚ F.
Start Indoors: Yes
Start Outdoors: Yes
Water: Low. Black-Eyed Susan plants require occasional watering in dry weather.
Feeder: Light. Black-Eyed Susan prefers a rich soil but will tolerate poor soils of many types.
Suitability: Tolerates light frost
Small Gardens?: Yes
Containers?: Yes. Sometimes known as “pot marigold,” Black-Eyed Susan is easily grown in pots on the doorstep or in window boxes.
Attracts beneficial insects?: Yes. Butterflies, bees, and a variety of insects are attracted to the flowers for the nectar.
Height: 24”
Spacing: 15-18”
Produces: brilliantly bright display of red/orange flowers that are bordered with yellow
USDA Grow Zone: 3-10
Ease of Growing: Easy
Grown as: Biennial
Maturity(Blooms): Early Summer to Late Fall
Hardiness: Hardy. Black-Eyed Susan can tolerate light frost and will sometimes survive a hard frost or snow.
Crops: Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season: Short, Long
Growing Conditions: Cool, Warm. Black-Eyed Susan tolerate a wide variety of climates but will do best in full sun, well-draining rich soil, and cool temperatures. The plants will often stop blooming in hot weather.
Outdoor Growing Temp: 55°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 60°F. Black-Eyed Susan seeds can be planted as soon as the soil warms up to around 60˚ F.
Start Indoors: Yes
Start Outdoors: Yes
Water: Low. Black-Eyed Susan plants require occasional watering in dry weather.
Feeder: Light. Black-Eyed Susan prefers a rich soil but will tolerate poor soils of many types.
Suitability: Tolerates light frost
Small Gardens?: Yes
Containers?: Yes. Sometimes known as “pot marigold,” Black-Eyed Susan is easily grown in pots on the doorstep or in window boxes.
Attracts beneficial insects?: Yes. Butterflies, bees, and a variety of insects are attracted to the flowers for the nectar.
Height: 24”
Spacing: 15-18”
Produces: brilliantly bright display of red/orange flowers that are bordered with yellow
USDA Grow Zone: 3-10
Soil Preference:
Soil pH: 4.5-8.3, Ideal 6.0-7.0. Black-Eyed Susan will grow in almost any soil, but prefers a rich, well-drained one.
Soil Preparation:
Compost (Nitrogen), 2" in top 6" of soil, 1 time: Incorporate a maximum 2" of compost into the top 6" of soil before planting.
Soil pH: 4.5-8.3, Ideal 6.0-7.0. Black-Eyed Susan will grow in almost any soil, but prefers a rich, well-drained one.
Soil Preparation:
Compost (Nitrogen), 2" in top 6" of soil, 1 time: Incorporate a maximum 2" of compost into the top 6" of soil before planting.
Direct sow Black-Eyed Susan (Gloriosa Daisy) seeds in late fall, pressing into the surface of the soil since this plant needs light to germinate. For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 30 days before planting. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Gloriosa Daisy seeds can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before planting in spring. Keep seedlings lightly moist, and transplant them as soon as they have developed several leaves.
Water seedlings regularly until they become established. This plant grows very quickly and needs little care. Though it grows well in fairly dry soil, it performs best with occasional watering in dry weather. This plant usually begins blooming in its second year of growth. Mature plants tolerate heat and drought well, as well as tolerating clay or rocky soils. Deadhead for the longest blooming period. Mature plants can be divided. This plant attracts butterflies, and may self-seed.
For cut flowers, choose stems with flowers that have just opened. Strip the foliage that will fall below the water level, and place in water immediately.
After the flower petals fall from the head, the center cone will begin to develop seed. Remove the seed heads as soon as the stem beneath the cone begins to turn dry and brown. Spread the seed heads out to dry away from direct sunlight, then separate the small seeds from the stems by rubbing them lightly. Store the cleaned seed in a dry, cool place.
A poultice made from the fresh roots of Rudbeckia Hirta is used to treat snakebites. Its roots can help bring relief to irritated skin if you wash the area with a warm root infusion. Rudbeckia Hirta roots are also an “immune booster” that stimulate your immune system to treat illnesses such as common colds, flu, and others.
Project Purity Seeds can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Companion Planting
Gloriosa Daisy attracts many pollinators such as bats, honey and native bees, birds, and is also a larval host plant for butterflies such as Bordered Patch, Gorgone Checkerspot, and many more. In the Autumn you might also see Goldfinches appear feasting on Gloriosa daisy seeds. This plant can be grown in containers or hanging baskets and is an excellent companion for plants like vegetables that struggle to attract pollinators on their own.
Companions: Butterfly Milkweed, Scarlet Bee Balm, Horse Mint, Whorled Milkweed, Tall Coreopsis, Purple Coneflower, Rough Blazing Star, Indiangrass, and Prairie Dropseed.
Companions: Butterfly Milkweed, Scarlet Bee Balm, Horse Mint, Whorled Milkweed, Tall Coreopsis, Purple Coneflower, Rough Blazing Star, Indiangrass, and Prairie Dropseed.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to powdery mildew. Watch for slugs and snails on young plants. Can self-seed freely. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
Slugs and Snails
Beneficial insects such as Earwig and Ground Beetles prey on Slugs and Snails.
Earwig: Earwigs prey on aphids, mites, nematodes, slugs and their eggs, other soft bodied insects and decaying plant matter.
To attract Earwigs to your garden you will need to grow: Celery (Apium graveolens), Beets (Beta vulgaris, Cabbages, Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea/Brassica rapa), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Dahlia, Carrot (Daucus carota), Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), Hop (Humulus lupulus), Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius), Apple (Malus domestica), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium), Plum (Prunus domestica), Peach (Prunus persica), European Pear (Pyrus communis), Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum), Roses (Rosa), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Potato (Solanum tuberosum), Grapevine (Vitis vinifera), Corn (Zea mays), Zinnia
Ground Beetles: Prey on snails, slugs, ants, maggots, earthworms, caterpillars, armyworms, grubs, Colorado potato beetles, cutworms.
To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: evening primrose, amaranthus, clover.
To attract Earwigs to your garden you will need to grow: Celery (Apium graveolens), Beets (Beta vulgaris, Cabbages, Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea/Brassica rapa), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Dahlia, Carrot (Daucus carota), Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), Hop (Humulus lupulus), Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius), Apple (Malus domestica), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium), Plum (Prunus domestica), Peach (Prunus persica), European Pear (Pyrus communis), Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum), Roses (Rosa), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Potato (Solanum tuberosum), Grapevine (Vitis vinifera), Corn (Zea mays), Zinnia
Ground Beetles: Prey on snails, slugs, ants, maggots, earthworms, caterpillars, armyworms, grubs, Colorado potato beetles, cutworms.
To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: evening primrose, amaranthus, clover.
Suggested Varieties
Amaranth: Love Lies Bleeding (Heirloom) (Amaranthus caudatus)
$1.00 - $5.60
As a decorative flower, Love-Lies-Bleeding grew in many Victorian English gardens; in the language of flowers, it represents hopeless love. In addition to producing lovely flowers, Love-Lies-Bleeding is a form of the grain-producing plant known as amaranth. A staple grain for the Aztecs and Incas, amaranth was referred to as the "golden grain of the gods" and used in religious rituals. The plant nearly died out when the Spanish Conquistadors declared their religious practices barbaric, and made growing amaranth a capital offense. Today, both the leaves and the seeds of amaranth are an important food source in many parts of the world. This unique grain provides an impressive amount of vitamins and minerals, as well as being very rich in protein.
Amaranth: Perfecta (Heirloom) (Amaranthus Tricolor 'Perfecta')
$1.00 - $5.60
This fast-growing, heat-loving plant originated in tropical Asia, where it is widely cultivated as a leaf vegetable. It bears large, elliptic or oval leaves on erect stems. The brightly hued new leaves fade gradually to medium green with deep maroon markings. This cultivar is spectacular from summer to frost. Insignificant clusters of green or reddish flowers appear at the stem tips and in the leaf axils in summer. Small capsules containing a single brown or black seed follow the flowers.
Amaranth: Red Garnet (Heirloom) (Amaranthus tricolor)
$1.00 - $5.60
Amaranth had a sacred status in the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and Incas, since the grain was used in various religious rituals. It remains a staple food in modern Mexico and some parts of Asia, being prepared in numerous dishes from sweet to savory. One traditional Mexican treat known as "alegria" is made with amaranth grain and honey or molasses. A super grain, amaranth can be used for gluten free flour; it also makes a complete protein when mixed with another grain. In addition, amaranth greens have a higher iron content than any other green vegetable except parsley, as well as containing many valuable vitamins and minerals.
Bee Balm: Scarlet (Monarda Didyma)
$1.00 - $5.60
Sold out
Scarlet beebalm is an aromatic perennial plant that is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). The flowers bloom from June through September in beautiful clusters of scarlet red. Scarlet Bee Balm may be grown as a ornamental plant or wildflower both within and outside its native range. Adds vibrant color at a time when other plants are apt to be drab and will thrive in any moist soil that is well-drained! Bee Balm has a long history of use as a medicinal plant by many Native Americans, and is the natural source of the antiseptic Thymol. The leaves of the plant have a minty scent and are a good ingredient for potpourri making. Leaves are also used in salads and beverages! These flowers are also recommended for attracting hummingbirds!
Beets: Cylindra (Heirloom) (Beta vulgaris)
$1.00 - $5.60
Though Cylindra heirloom beets hail from Denmark, beets seem to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where people grew them for thousands of years. Later, beets grew in Germany and Holland and were used as cattle fodder; they were later imported to England for this purpose, but the poor began to raise them for an affordable food source. American colonists later brought them to the New World, where they became a commonly enjoyed food both for their roots and their greens. According to historians, George Washington experimented with beets, cross-pollinating them to create new varieties.
Beets: Detroit Dark Red (Heirloom) (Beta vulgaris)
$1.00 - $5.60
Detroit Dark Red heirloom beets hail from Ontario, Canada, where a Mr. Reeves developed them from blood turnips. This globular beet first made its appearance in 1892. However, beets seem to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where people grew them for thousands of years. Later, beets grew in Germany and Holland and were used as cattle fodder; they were later imported to England for this purpose, but the poor began to raise them for an affordable food source. American colonists later brought them to the New World, where they became a commonly enjoyed food both for their roots and their greens.
Beets: Golden Detroit (Heirloom) (Beta vulgaris)
$1.00 - $5.60
Beets seem to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where people grew them for thousands of years. Later, beets grew in Germany and Holland and were used as cattle fodder; they were later imported to England for this purpose, but the poor began to raise them for an affordable food source. American colonists later brought them to the New World, where they became a commonly enjoyed food both for their roots and their greens. According to historians, George Washington experimented with beets, cross-pollinating them to create new varieties.
Cauliflower: Snowball Y Improved (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)
$1.00 - $5.60
In spite of Mark Twain's opinion that cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education, this vegetable enjoyed extreme popularity in the palaces of French royalty such as Louis XIV. Its origin is thought to be Cyprus, though records also show its presence in Arab, Mediterranean, and African countries and the Roman Empire. By the 17th century, cauliflower had reached England; Italian immigrants were the first to appreciate its culinary qualities and bring it to America, where it soon grew in nearly every family and commercial garden.
Celery: Tendercrisp (Heirloom) (Apium graveolens var. dulce)
$1.00 - $5.60
No one really knows where celery originated, though claims come from such diverse locations as Sweden, New Zealand, and Algeria. Experts believe it probably was first cultivated in the Mediterranean basin. In ancient times, celery was valued primarily for its medicinal benefits; French and Italian cooks first started making use of it for an herb or flavoring in the seventeenth century. A Scotsman named George Taylor is credited with bringing celery to United States, when he grew it in his garden and offered it to the guests at a local ball.
Celery: Utah Tall 52/70 (Heirloom) (Apium graveolens var. dulce)
$1.00 - $5.60
No one really knows where celery originated, though claims come from such diverse locations as Sweden, New Zealand, and Algeria. Experts believe it probably was first cultivated in the Mediterranean basin. In ancient times, celery was valued primarily for its medicinal benefits; French and Italian cooks first started making use of it for an herb or flavoring in the seventeenth century. A Scotsman named George Taylor is credited with bringing celery to United States, when he grew it in his garden and offered it to the guests at a local ball.
Carrots: Chantenay Red Cored (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
Introduced from France in the late 1800s. Blocky, broad-shouldered variety with blunt tip, about 5-1/2" long and 2-1/2" at the shoulder. Deep orange interior. Adaptable to clay and a wide range of soils. A versatile, good winter keeper that is quite tasty, raw or cooked. Stores well in the ground. Becomes sweeter in storage.
Carrots: Cosmic Purple (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
The first mention of red, white, and purple carrots can be found in the records of both Afghanistan and Egypt. Yellow carrots, on the other hand, date back to Turkish records from the 900's. Carrots fulfilled medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being used for maladies as diverse as indigestion and cancer. After World War I, carrots became extremely popular in the United States, and are now produced commercially mostly in Texas, Michigan, and California.
Carrots: Danvers (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
The origin of carrots is somewhat obscure, but early records from many civilizations refer to this colorful root. Carrots fulfilled medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being used for maladies as diverse as indigestion and cancer. After World War I, carrots became extremely popular in the United States, and are now produced commercially mostly in Texas, Michigan, and California. Danvers carrots in particular come from Danvers, Massachusetts, where the Eastern States Farmers Exchange introduced them in 1947.
Carrots: Lunar White (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
Lunar White Carrots are an annual vegetable that were introduced into the United States from Europe. This pigment free variety was grown in Europe in the 16th century and was used to feed cattle as well as people. Lunar White Carrots grow to the size of 6-12” long and are nearly coreless. They have a crisp texture and a mild and delicious taste. Matures in 60-65 days.
Carrots: Rainbow Blend (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
Festive Color and Flavor Mix of Purple, Yellow, Red and White Carrots is sure to delight—each with their own unique qualities. Purple has smooth skin, coreless orange flesh and is sweet and tasty. Solar Yellow holds its sunny hue inside and out, is crunchy, sweet and juicy. Lunar White is mild and delicious, and Atomic Red has high lycopene levels as well as a crispy texture that is great cooked.
Carrots: Scarlet Nantes (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
The origin of carrots is somewhat obscure, but early records from many civilizations refer to this colorful root. Carrots fulfilled medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being used for maladies as diverse as indigestion and cancer. The 19th century seed specialist Louis de Vilmorin introduced the French varieties of carrot such as Nantes and Chantenay, which both derive their names from their places of origin. After World War I, carrots became extremely popular in the United States, and are now produced commercially mostly in Texas, Michigan, and California.
Carrots: Tendersweet (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
$1.00 - $5.60
The origin of carrots is somewhat obscure, but early records from many civilizations refer to this colorful root. Carrots fulfilled medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being used for maladies as diverse as indigestion and cancer. The Dutch were the among the first to cultivate the orange carrot; legend has it that their intent was to honor William of Orange. After World War I, carrots became extremely popular in the United States, and are now produced commercially mostly in Texas, Michigan, and California.
Clover: Crimson (Trifolium incarnatum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Most commonly known as crimson clover, this wildflower is also called Italian or French clover in reference to it's nativity to Europe. This annual species blooms in a strawberry red, and it's delightful fragrance attracts bees by the score! A non-invasive, annual species of clover, it is often used as a cover-crop. In southern climates, plant it during your off-season, and watch the amazing results of this rich, nitrogen producing plant! The earthworms love it! Also a protein-rich forage crop for cattle and livestock, this gem of a wildflower is indispensable!
Clover: Strawberry Palestine (Trifolium fragiferum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Strawberry Palestine Clover is an introduced species that is native to the Mediterranean, as well as parts of central Europe and Asia. Growing to 9-12”, this hardy groundcover tolerates flooding and is great for grazing! It’s botanical name “fragiferum” translates to “strawberry bearing” since both the mature flower look and spread very much like strawberries!
Coneflower: Purple (Echinacea purpurea)
$1.00 - $5.60
All the members of the Echinacea genus are native to North America, though they are becoming more rare in the wild. The genus name Echinacea comes from the Greek word for “hedgehog,” referring to the spiny seed head of the flower. Historically, this family of plants has been extensively used by Native American tribes and early settlers because of its beneficial medicinal properties. Echinacea acts as a natural antibiotic, and improves the function of the immune system; it became very popular in the medical field in the early twentieth century, particularly after the extensive researches of the German Dr. Gerhard Madaus. Echinacea is still widely used as an herbal remedy, as well as being a common and well-loved addition to perennial gardens and prairie plantings.
Corn: Country Gentleman-Open Pollinated (Heirloom) (Zea mays)
$1.00 - $5.60
Country Gentleman corn, a heirloom variety, is the most well known variety of shoepeg corn. Named for the similarity of its kernels to wooden pegs used in shoe making, shoepeg corn is characterized by small, irregular white kernels of unsurpassed tenderness and sweetness. The American South has made this type of corn its own, and it is virtually unrecognized in other areas of the United States. Country Gentleman was first offered for sale in 1890 by S. D. Woodruff & Sons.
Corn: Golden Bantam-Open Pollinated (Heirloom) (Zea mays)
$1.00 - $5.60
A Greenfield, Massachusetts native named J. G. Pickett is credited with developing this marvelous variety of corn. Later, seed expert E. L. Coy sent it to Burpee with the note, "you now own the very richest and sweetest corn ever known."
Corn, Popcorn: Shaman's Blue (Hybrid) Open Pollinated (Zea mays)
$1.00 - $5.60
Blue corn originated in the Andes Mountains of Peru, where the native peoples usually ground it into flour for cooking. Indians of Mexico and the southwestern United States also widely used this corn, since its dryness made it an excellent flour corn and gave it good resistance to disease. This exciting blue popcorn receives high marks for both visual and taste appeal. The unique blue/purple kernel pops into mounds of snow white popcorn that will satisfy any popcorn lover with its slightly sweet flavor.
Corn, Popcorn: South American Yellow (Zea mays)
$1.00 - $5.60
According to evidence found by archaeologists on the northern coast of Peru, popcorn was a staple in the ancient civilizations of South America. Popcorn also grew above the border, and it once occupied a space in nearly every American garden. At the beginning of the twentieth century, 52 varieties of popcorn were offered by the seed catalogs of the time. A wise choice for popcorn lovers! This prolific variety bears 2-3, 6-9 inch ears per plant. When popped, the large yellow kernels produce a buttery tasting popcorn.
Corn, Popcorn: Strawberry Red (Zea Mays)
$1.00 - $5.60
Although it's exact origin is unknown, it is believed that Strawberry Red Popcorn was domesticated by the Olmec and the Mayans. Not only is this amazing variety edible, but it is just as decorative. Each plant grows to 5-6' and bares two or so 2-3" strawberry shaped ears that are covered with brilliant burgundy kernels! Your mind will be blown as you watch the red kernels pop into white popcorn with in the blink of eye!
Cucumber: General Lee (F1 Hybrid) (Cucumis sativus 'General Lee') Untreated
$1.00 - $5.60
General Lee Cucumber is a F1-Hybird that was bred by L. Gautney. In 65 days, General Lee produces high yields of 8-8 ½” long, straight, dark green cucumbers that are great for slicing. This variety is resistant to powdery mildew, downy mildew, scab, and cucumber mosaic virus. It grows great in both the North and the South and performs exceptionally well even under stress.
Cucumber: Lemon (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
Historians generally agree that the first cucumbers grew in India's Himalayan Mountains over 3,000 years ago. From this region they expanded into Greece and Rome; the Romans most likely spread this vegetable to the rest of Europe. The cucumber was widely grown by native Americans through the influence of the Spanish and other explorers. Cucumbers continue to be a vital part of traditional cuisine in Russia and many parts of Asia; the greatest variety of colors and shapes of this vegetable can still be found in its Asian birthplace. Lemon cucumbers in particular can be traced back to the gardens of the 1890s.
Cucumber: Marketmore 76' (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
Historians generally agree that the first cucumbers grew in India's Himalayan Mountains over 3,000 years ago. From this region they expanded into Greece and Rome; the Romans most likely spread this vegetable to the rest of Europe. The cucumber was widely grown by native Americans through the influence of the Spanish and other explorers. Cucumbers continue to be a vital part of traditional cuisine in Russia and many parts of Asia; the greatest variety of colors and shapes of this vegetable can still be found in its Asian birthplace. Marketmore cucumbers in particular were developed at Cornell University of New York, but Dr. Henry Munger.
Cucumber: Mexican Sour Gherkin (Heirloom) (Melothria scabra)
$1.00 - $5.60
Sold out
Melothria scabra is a vine grown for its edible fruit. Fruit are about the size of grapes and taste like cucumbers with a tinge of sourness. Vernacular names include mouse melon, Mexican sour gherkin, cucamelon, Mexican miniature watermelon, Mexican sour cucumber and pepquinos. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it is called sandiita (little watermelon). It is believed to have been a domesticated crop before western contact began.
Cucumber: National Pickling (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
National Pickling cucumbers in particular come from the research of George Starr of Michigan State University, who was commissioned by the National Pickle Packers Association to produce a pickle that would perform equally well for small and large pickles. The resulting cucumber excelled all expectations when it was offered to the public in 1924.
Cucumber: Straight Eight (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
Historians generally agree that the first cucumbers grew in India's Himalyan Mountains over 3,000 years ago. From this region they expanded into Greece and Rome; the Romans most likely spread this vegetable to the rest of Europe. The cucumber was widely grown by native Americans through the influence of the Spanish and other explorers. Cucumbers continue to be a vital part of traditional cuisine in Russia and many parts of Asia; the greatest variety of colors and shapes of this vegetable can still be found in its Asian birthplace. Straight Eight cucumbers in particular were developed because of the demand for straight cucumbers; they exceeded all expectations, and won the AAS Gold Medal Award in 1935.
Cucumber: Sumter (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
Perfect for pickling, this disease resistant cucumber variety produces blocky, slightly tapered, medium green fruit with white spines. Widely adapted for growing in all regions, for home or market. Tender annual 4' vines, 5" fruit. Disease Resistant to Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, Alternaria Leaf Spot and tolerant to Cucumber Mosaic Virus.
Cucumber: White Wonder (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
This high yielding ivory white cucumber variety was introduced into the U.S. and first offered by Burpee Seed Company in 1893. White Wonder Cucumbers are delicious raw, in salads, or pickled.
Cucumber: Wisconsin SMR 58 (Heirloom) (Cucumis sativus)
$1.00 - $5.60
Historians generally agree that the first cucumbers grew in India's Himalayan Mountains over 3,000 years ago. From this region they expanded into Greece and Rome; the Romans most likely spread this vegetable to the rest of Europe. The cucumber was widely grown by native Americans through the influence of the Spanish and other explorers. Cucumbers continue to be a vital part of traditional cuisine in Russia and many parts of Asia; the greatest variety of colors and shapes of this vegetable can still be found in its Asian birthplace. As the name suggests, the Wisconsin SMR 58 cucumber comes from the University of Wisconsin; it soon achieved the title of the best non-hybrid pickling cucumber.
Lettuce: Bibb (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)
$1.00 - $5.60
This unusual lettuce with a resemblance to both leaf lettuce and iceberg lettuce was first grown by Lt. Jack B. Bibb of Frankfurt, Kentucky in 1935. Lt. Bibb experimented with horticulture in his greenhouse and ended up with this famous variety, which provides the traditional salad lettuce of the Kentucky Derby. Bibb lettuce also has been called "limestone lettuce" because of the high lime content in the Kentucky soil.
Lettuce: Freckles Romaine (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)
$1.00 - $5.60
Freckles heirloom lettuce, originally known by the German name of "Forellenschluss," which means "speckled like a trout's back," comes from Austria and Southern Germany in the late 18th century. Wild lettuce, however, from which modern lettuce is derived, originated in Asia Minor. The ancient historian Herodotus records its presence on the tables of 6th century Persian kings, and throughout the following centuries it became a popular crop all over Europe. Columbus brought it with him to the New World, starting its spread over the North American continent. Without a doubt, lettuce now holds a place in nearly every garden on the globe.
Lettuce: Lolla Rossa (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)
$1.00 - $5.60
If you are looking to jazz up your salads and garnishes, then you should definitely try Lolla Rossa Lettuce! This Italian Heirloom has beautiful 5”-8” deeply curled magenta leaves with a light green base. Lolla Rossa lettuce also has a fantastically delicious mild nutty flavor with the absence of any bitterness. This variety is fast growing matures in 50-55 days and is perfect to cut and come again!
Lettuce: Oakleaf (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)
$1.00 - $5.60
Oakleaf lettuce dates back to 1771, when it was introduced by the French seed company Vilmorin. Wild lettuce, however, from which modern lettuce is derived, originated in Asia Minor. The ancient historian Herodotus records its presence on the tables of 6th century Persian kings, and throughout the following centuries it became a popular crop all over Europe. Columbus brought it with him to the New World, starting its spread over the North American continent. Without a doubt, lettuce now holds a place in nearly every garden on the globe.
Lettuce: Red Romaine (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)
$1.00 - $5.60
Romaine lettuce, though named for its presence in the papal gardens, dates back to the third millennium BC, where ancient Egyptians depicted this type of lettuce in their bas-reliefs. Another name for Romaine, "Cos," shows another part of its history on the Greek island of Kos. Later, Syrian gardeners began selectively breeding this type of lettuce to have a thick rib and spoon-like shape, since they used lettuce as a spoon for their traditional cuisine.
Milkweed: Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
$1.00 - $5.60
Butterfly Weed, one of the most striking of native plants, lights up the prairies with its blazing orange flowers. It thrives in rocky or sandy soil, typically in open fields or along roadsides. One of its common names, pleurisy root, refers to an old remedy for lung ailments that contained this plant. At one time, the silk from this plant’s seed pods was spun for fabric or used for stuffing pillows; in World War II, school children gathered the silk to provide a cheap filling for soldiers’ life jackets. Commercial attempts to make use of this abundant plant included the manufacture of paper, fabric, lubricant, fuel, and rubber; eventually these became impractical and were abandoned. Though this plant is toxic to most animals, butterflies are immune to the plant’s poison and actually become rather poisonous themselves as protection from predators.
Mint: Horse (Monarda fistulosa)
$1.00 - $5.60
Butterfly attracting premier! Bursting with lavender heads of flowers, this popular perennial wildflower puts on a beautiful show! Medium to tall in height, this plant looks great planted en masse, or with other meadow dwellers. Its sweetly aromatic foliage makes it even more desirable. A classic!
Tomato: Amana Orange (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
The Amana Orange tomato is an Iowa heirloom obtained from Gary Staley of Brandon, Florida, who named it for the Amana Colonies of Amana, Iowa. The Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark since 1965, were completely self sufficient German Pietist communities. The Colonies imported with them their traditions and handcrafts from Germany, including heirloom vegetables such as Amana Orange.
Tomato: Arkansas Traveler (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
The Arkansas Traveler is an open-pollinated heirloom variety of tomato that was bred by the University of Arkansas in 1968. The plant is indeterminate with round red fruits weighing approximately 6-8 ounces
Tomato: Black Krim (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Black tomatoes originated in Russia, and first reached the United States with solders returning home from the Crimean War. Black Krim, considered one of the best of the black tomatoes, comes from the Crimean peninsula in the Black Sea. Lars Olov Rosenstrom of Sweden found this excellent variety in Krim, Russia in 1990.
Tomato: Beefsteak (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Seed expert Peter Henderson introduced this tomato in 1894, naming it "Henderson's Crimson Cushion." Later renamed Beefsteak, it became a favorite of gardeners in the Northeast. It was developed for resistance to fusarium wilt and nematodes, as well as meaty flesh for eating fresh or cooking.
Tomato: Green Zebra (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Seed expert Tom Wagner of Everett, Washington bred Green Zebra from several green tomato varieties, including Evergreen. Since he was young, Tom had been fascinated with green tomatoes, but was disappointed with their tendency to crack. He set out to create a new green tomato, and Green Zebra was the result; he first offered it for sale in his seed catalog in 1983.
Tomato: Hillbilly (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
This multicolored heirloom tomato originates in the mountains of West Virginia. Ohio gardener Jerry Lee Bosner introduced this seed to Seed Savers Exchange for commercial use in 1994.
Tomato: Indigo Apple (Hybrid) (Solanum lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Apple Indigo tomato was bred by Brad Gates in Copemish, MI. who naturally crossed indigo rose with red cherry tomatoes. It is an early maturing, indeterminate, open pollinated, hybrid tomato variety that matures in 70 days. It produces clusters of 2-4 oz., shiny black to reddish purple, apple shaped tomatoes. This variety also has nice size foliage that prevents tomatoes from getting sun scald. It is definitely a great choice for home gardens and hydroponic gardening.
Tomato: Italian Roma (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Tomatoes first arrived in Italy with the return of European explorers from South America, bringing with them the unknown "tomatl," a member of the nightshade family that was considered poisonous for centuries and only used for decoration. Though Italians didn't discover the merits of tomatoes as a vegetable until the 18th century, they quickly became a staple ingredient in Italian sauces and pasta. The Roma tomato, also called an Italian plum tomato, performs excellently for sauces because of its low water content.
Tomato: Purple Cherokee (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
Craig LeHoullier, a Seed Savers Exchange member, PhD chemist, and gardening enthusiast, received the seeds of Cherokee Purple in the mail from J. D. Green of Tennessee. Mr. Green stated that his neighbor had obtained the seed from Cherokee Indians in the area, who had developed this variety and grown it for generations. LeHoullier, being greatly impressed with the purple tomatoes, sent them to Southern Exposure Seed Exchange and Johnny's Seeds, who both began to produce them commercially in 1991. Cherokee Purple, in addition to the famous Brandywine tomatoes, caused the popularity of old fashioned heirloom varieties of tomato.
Tomato: Sweetie Cherry (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
The Heirloom Sweetie Cherry Tomato has a firm texture and was produced for commercial sale in 1980. These succulent fruits can grow up to 1" in diameter, and even though they aren't very big, they still have incredibly high sugar content.
Tomato: Yellow Pear (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
$1.00 - $5.60
History well documents the Yellow Pear tomato, indicating the presence of this variety in Europe as early as the 17th century. The earliest known reference to this heirloom in North America comes from the sale records of the Hudson Bay Company in Vancouver, Canada. Numerous heirloom seed companies in the United States still offer Yellow Pear as an unusual, delicious little tomato.
Zinnia: Canary Bird (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
This variety has large, 4-5 inch bright yellow dahlia-type flowers. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.
Zinnia: Cherry Queen (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
Beautiful big red blossoms grow on three-foot high plants. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.
Zinnia: Exquisite (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
A unique and colorful Zinnia that offers a range of shades. Exquisite Zinnia is an easy to grow annual that blooms bright red and fades to soft rose pink as the blooms age. Definitely a favorite of gardeners, florists, or anyone who loves cut flowers.
Zinnia: Luminosa (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
These big 4-5 inch blooms are bright pink. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.
Zinnia: Orange King (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
Large, bright orange blooms grow on this cheery variety. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.
Zinnia: Polar Bear (Zinnia elegans)
$1.00 - $5.60
When Zinnias were introduced to Europeans, the flowers were referred to as 'poorhouse flower' and 'everybody's flower' because they were so easy to grow. They were also once popularly called 'youth and old age' because old blooms stay fresh as new blooms open. Years of breeding have brought striking new colors, shapes, sizes, and growing habits to the humble zinnia. No present day gardener would ever describe this versatile bloomer as anything less than eye catching. Zinnias may have fell out of favor for a while with home gardeners, but now they are back in fashion with a vengeance. They are extremely easy to grow from seed and are the perfect flower for beginners. They provide color from mid-summer to autumn and are perfect for cutting. Zinnias are a favorite flower of both gardeners and florists around the world.