Happy New Year!

I too lost my Rhamnus Californica this summer. I had planted it last spring but without much time to set itself, the summer heatwaves, three to four days long, hit hard. It reached 110 degrees most of those days. One day it reached 118 in my area! Amazingly, the rest of the summer days were relatively mild.

I’ll write some more once I can get back out in the garden!

Sorry to hear about your loss, the Fremontias certainly seem to be tough plant to keep alive. I have one just now that seems to be ok, the biggest challenge is fighting the temptation to water it.

I have found the seeds germinate quite nicely after two months cold stratification. I had a batch germinate in November last year when the temperatures came down a little. Early September is a great time to start stratification during which time the black seed casing will peel open. Keep an eye open for fungus, any seeds that start to grow furry bits need to be removed ASAP. Some seeds may start to sprout during the two month period, so when that happens it’s probably safe to plant all the seeds then just wait.

When the seedlings get to about 3″ tall the plants are getting to the stage where they are as sensitive to soil pathogens and overwatering as adult plants so don’t be afraid to scale back the moisture. I learned that when all my seedlings flopped and died this year. I’ll try again this fall.

Good luck to you!

thanks for leaving a comment.

I have had most success picking up seeds from Larner Seeds and the Theodore Payne Foundation. I think for this plant, Theodore Payne would be your best bet. Their online seed store seems to be updated fairly often or you can call (818) 768-1802.

Galvezia speciosa flowers late spring through early summer so a new harvest will typically take place in fall. They may well have some left over from last season.

Good luck!

Euan

Thanks very much.
Linda