Craspedia
Overview:
Craspedia was a new flower I grew in the 2022-2023 season. I was blown away, to say the least. They produced strong, loli-pop blooms that were the perfect addition to all my spring bouquets. The plants stayed on the short side, like a clump of grass, with blooms reaching 18” tall. some people call this flower ‘drumstick flower’ or ‘Billy balls’. This flower dries perfectly, it’s as beautiful dried as it is fresh.
Craspedia are short-lived perennials in zone 8b and up. In my zone 9b garden, I like to plant sunflowers next to the plants in early summer so they can help cast shade onto them all summer long. This will help the plants through the hot months so they can bloom again the following spring.
Starting seeds:
Starting seeds for craspeida is relatively easy. I usually over-sow the seedlings, putting 5-8 seeds per cell. I do not thin out seedlings for this flower. Surface sow the seeds, and sprinkle a fine layer of vermiculite atop. Check out my seed starting guide for more tips and tricks for indoor seed starting. Start seeds indoors in September or October.
When to plant outdoors:
October-November or a few weeks before the last frost.
Spacing:
9” apart
Height:
12-18”
Sun:
Full sun 6+ hours
Flower Support:
Not needed
Moderate
Typical bloom time:
April- June
Succession plant?
No
Seed Sourcing:
Johnny’s seeds and Geo seeds are my go-to’s.
Craspeida growing along the fence line.
Craspeida make a great cut flower and dry just as they look! Florists absolutely love them for a pop of color.
Can not get over how fun these are to grow! They are beautiful in the garden, as well as in the home. Perfect for your cottage garden.
