An important host plant for caterpillars of swallowtail butterflies. Even though particularly good for pickling because of early, abundant seed production, Bouquet foliage also is delicious sprinkled on potatoes, tomatoes, salmon, spinach, cucumbers and lamb chops. 30" - 36" tall, and very aromatic.
Warm season annual.
~ planting ~
When to sow outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks before average last frost. Successive sowings every 2 to 3 weeks until hot weather will assure a continual fresh supply of foliage and seeds. When to start inside: Not recommended. 8 to 10 weeks before average last frost. Sow in individual pulp pots that can be planted directly in the ground. Special germination instructions: Requires light to germinate; press lightly into soil surface and keep moist.
~ harvesting ~
Fresh foliage can be harvested anytime until plant flowers. Cut leaves as close to stem as possible. Seeds should be harvested 2-3 weeks after flowering begins, after the flower heads have turned brown. Cut flower heads with stem and place in paper bag before seed becomes too mature and falls to the ground. Heads should be placed in bottom of bag and the top of the bag should be tied shut around the stems. Seeds will fall to the bottom of the bag. Store seeds in airtight glass herb jar.
