Heptacodium miconioides seeds (Seven Sons Flower)

Description

Years ago I planted one as a late summer nectar source for the bees only to learn later that this is rare species introduced to the world just recently courtesy of the 1980 Sino-American Botanical Expedition.  White jasmine scented blooms hang in clusters followed by more colour in its bright pink sepals which gives the illusion of continuing bloom. Multi-stemmed from the base, the pale creamy tan bark exfoliates in long strips. Seems to be disease and pest free. Fast growing and flowers at a young age. Tolerant of many soil types and sun exposure. Drought tolerant when established. Aptly named as the flowers are clusters of whorls where each whorl consists of 7 flowers.  Also known as Heptacodium jasminoides. Introduced to the world via  the 1980 Sino-Amencan Botanical Expedition.

This is an excellent read from the Arnold Arboretum in the introduction, growing and propagation of this rare species includes plantings at UBC Botanical Garden.  http://arnoldia.arboretum.harvard.edu/pdf/issues/1986-46-4-Arnoldia.pdf

• Seed Count: 10-12
• Collection Date:  November 2024
• Hardiness Zone: 5b-9
• Height and Width: 6m x 4m
• Germination test type: cut, hand sort
• Family:  Caprifoliaceae

How to germinate Heptacodium miconioides seeds:

We now store our seed dry as those kept in cold stratification germinated during refrigeration after a few months after collection.  We recommend soaking seed for 12-24 hours then proceed with cold stratification for 2 months then give warm stratification (20C). Prick out and transplant as they germinate.  We’re still learning and will continue with our germination trials. Information gleaned from Dirr, he suggests: 5 months warm strat @ 70F ; then 3 months cold strat @ 39F; then sow @ 70F. Cut tests show that seed sometimes hosts 2 embyros.