King Size Red Strawflower is a stunning heirloom everlasting with double-petaled blooms in vivid scarlet that reach 2.5 inches across on plants standing 36 to 40 inches tall. From seed to first flowers takes about 84 days, and once established these drought-tolerant performers bloom prolifically from early summer through fall, creating a six-month color show in the garden. The papery, long-lasting flowers are legendary among florists and crafters for their ability to dry perfectly while retaining their brilliant red hue, making them as valuable in a vase as they are on the stem.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
40in H x 18in W
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Moderate
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The double-petaled scarlet blooms stay fresh and vibrant for weeks, whether in a fresh arrangement or dried for lasting floral designs. Long, sturdy stems reach 36 to 40 inches tall and practically disappear under clusters of flowers, giving you armfuls of material for cutting. Once it takes hold in the garden, this variety asks for almost nothing: full sun, moderate water, and a bit of spacing, and it rewards you with nonstop blooms that attract pollinators while tolerating summer heat and drought like a champion.
These flowers are highly sought after for cutting and arranging, whether displayed fresh in water or dried for long-term arrangements. The long stems and abundant blooms make them perfect for flower crowns, bridal work, and landscape design. Because the papery texture and color persist beautifully after drying, they're a favorite among crafters for wreaths, garlands, and pressed-flower projects.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date, keeping them at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 10 days, though it can take up to 21 days depending on conditions. Surface sow and cover lightly, as these seeds need light to germinate. Firm the soil gently after sowing and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Harden off transplants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before moving them permanently to the garden. Transplant after your last frost date when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed. Space plants 10 to 12 inches apart in full sun. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, settle the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container, and water gently to eliminate air pockets.
Direct sow seeds at your last frost date in a prepared bed with full sun exposure. Scatter seeds on the soil surface and firm lightly into contact with the earth. Keep the area consistently moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days, then thin to 10 to 12 inches apart.
For fresh-cut flowers, harvest in the morning when petals are just opening and flowers are at their freshest. Cut with a clean knife that has been dipped in a 10% household bleach solution to prevent disease transmission and extend vase life. A few drops of bleach in the vase water will further prolong their beauty. These flowers dry naturally and can be left on the plant to cure or hung upside down in a warm, dry place with good air circulation for storage.
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