SILENE CAPENSIS SEEDS

Silene capensis

South African ethnobotanical. Long collected by the Xhosa for ritual use. Possibly endangered in its native range, making it preferable to grow rather than purchase from potentially unethical sources. The dried roots produce a saponin-rich foam that provokes lucid dreaming. Of all oneirogens, this species, when used correctly, is perhaps the most gentle and suitable for limited use by those wishing to keep their wits about them during the waking hours.

These plants aren't much to look at. Simple white flowers top disappointingly floppy leafless stems and only open at dusk. That said, their perfume is powerful, and one of the sweetest in the genus. Worth keeping on the patio, and in zones 6 and colder you don't have much choice, because they will not overwinter in the ground. Best grown in deep containers of rich moist soil.

Seeds germinate erratically over several weeks. We have had the best luck sowing at cool temperatures in bright light. Other sources suggest using potassium nitrate to hasten germination, and it may be worth trying if you have it. Best started indoors in late winter or early spring. Press seeds into moist soil, barely dusting with fine vermiculute. Mist carefully but generously and cover with plastic. Kept at cool room temperature in bright light, seeds will begin to germinate within 2-6 weeks. Once seedlings have true leaves, very carefully coax them out of their nursery pot and into deep pots of rich soil to grow on at warm room temperature in bright light. Water frequently.

This species prefers to grow in moist but well-drained soils. Part shade seems fine, and container-grown plants fare well with just morning sun in hot climates. First year plants may not bloom until very late summer or autumn. Overwinter indoors and harvest roots in the second year. Clean and dry thoroughly before storing in an airtight container.

If growing for seed be sure to bag flowering stems promptly because the ripe seeds drop very easily!

Hardy in zone 7 and warmer.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.