Wild Quinine, also known as American Feverfew, is a rare heirloom herb cherished for its historical medicinal uses and beloved by pollinators. This hardy perennial produces clusters of dense, white, cauliflower-like flowers that bloom from June through September, reaching heights of 2-4 feet. Wild Quinine thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun, making it a favorite for prairie restorations and naturalized gardens due to its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements. Native. Perennial.
Wild Quinine is not only an attractive addition to gardens but also a magnet for pollinators, including Halictine bees, wasps, flies, and beetles. Beetles typically feed on the pollen, while other insects seek nectar.
Scroll down for detailed growing info •
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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• DIRECTIONS •
Common Names: American Feverfew, Wild Quinine
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 3 - 8
Stratification: Cold/Wet for 4 Weeks
Germination Ease: Stratify 4 Weeks
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Prefers well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter; adaptable to various soil types
Height: 2-4 ft
Spread: 1-2 ft
Color: White
Bloom Season: Blooms June to September
~ Sowing ~
Fall:
Sow wild quinine seeds in late fall or as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Plant just below the surface, lightly compacting the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Do not attempt to move seedlings, since they resent having their roots disturbed.
Spring:
For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days before planting.
Harvesting: For fresh flowers, choose flower clusters that have just opened. Strip away the foliage that will fall below the water level, and place in water immediately. For dried flower arrangements, hang the stalks upside-down in a warm, dry place until they have completely dried. For best results, leave space around each stalk for good air movement.
Seed Saving: Allow the clusters of flowers to turn slightly brown and dry on the stem; cut the clusters and spread them out to dry completely. Separate the seed from the husks, removing as much plant material as possible. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.
~ Caring for ~
Watering:
Water seedlings until they become established. Mature plants tolerate drought and grow well in either dry or moist soil, though they prefer moist soil.
Growing:
In their first two years of growth, these seedlings will develop slowly as they concentrate on developing their large taproot; plants will begin blooming in their second or third year. In good growing conditions, they may spread by rhizomes.
Fertilizing:
Wild Quinine doesn’t require heavy feeding. A light application of compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring should be sufficient to support its growth.
Maintenance:
Do not attempt to move the plants, since they do not transplant well. Wild Quinine can be mowed or trimmed back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
Pest and Disease Management:
Generally pest-resistant, but it’s still important to monitor for common garden pests like aphids and caterpillars. If you notice any pests, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
The best time to harvest is when the plant is in full bloom, usually from late spring to early summer.
How to Harvest:
Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems just above a set of leaves. This will encourage the plant to produce more growth. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure it remains healthy.
Drying and Storing:
Spread the harvested stems on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Allow them to dry completely, which can take several days to a week. Once dried, strip the leaves and flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Seed Saving:
The flower spike will turn brown and dry while the seeds begin to form. Watch the plant carefully, since the seeds will soon blow away with the wind. Shake the ripe brown heads over a container to remove the seed. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
Wild Quinine produces nectar very freely and is pollinated by a variety of insects. It is very attractive to Honeybees, Bumblebees, Halictine bees, wasps, flies, and beetles. The beetles usually feed on the pollen, while the other insects seek nectar.
Origin:
A perennial plant native to North America. It is commonly found in dry areas of prairies and open woods. Habitats include prairies, meadows, and naturalized garden areas.
Climate Adaptability:
Wild Quinine is highly adaptable to a variety of climates within its USDA zones 3-8. It can tolerate periods of drought once established and thrives in both dry and moist conditions, making it suitable for a range of garden environments.
