Unusual Garden Seeds

Climbing Milkweed

• A rare and hard-to-find perennial vine, climbing milkweed (Matelea decipiens) is a vigorous grower that presents star-shaped burgundy flowers from April to July. A member of the milkweed family Asclepiadaceae, the plant, also known as old-field milkvine, attracts butterflies to the garden. Native to the southeastern United States, climbing milkweed is found in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Kansas, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

Cardoon

• Similar to the globe artichoke, Cardoon ( Cynara cardunculus) is a thistle-like plant that grows to a height of 3 to 5 feet and spreads from 6-foot wide clumps. It provides vivid greenery and habitat for wildlife and birds. The plant can be used as privacy screening or planted along a fence line. The tender young leaves and flower stalks are eaten. The leaves and stalks can be cooked or consumed fresh in salads. The plant is not winter hardy at temperatures below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Cardoon requires full sunlight, nutrient-rich soil and at least 1 inch of water per week. Seeds can be germinated indoors and transplanted to the garden after all danger of frost has passed.

Black Cummin

• Black cummin (Nigella sativa) is an annual herb grown for its unusual and flavorful seeds. The seeds are ground and used similar to black pepper. The feathery deep green leaves provide visual interest in the garden. An abundance of small white flowers attract butterflies and bees. Plant in a location with full sun and good drainage. The plant produces inflated seed pods that are attractive dried and used in floral arrangements. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep, keep the soil uniformly moist. Black cummin, also known as Roman coriander, readily reseeds itself.

Goji Berry

• Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) is a compact, low-growing bush that can be started from seed. The plant, also known as Wolf berry, presents small white and purple flowers in early summer followed by sweet, small red fruits. The plant bears fruit all summer long until the first frost. A member of the tomato family, goji berries are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. The fruit can be eaten fresh as a snack or in salads and deserts. The berries can be dried or used in jellies, sauces and jams. The seeds can be started indoors and planted outdoors after all danger of frost is over.