LIFE CYCLE
Annual
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
Thistle-like
GROWTH HABIT
Upright and branching
BLOOM SEASON
Summer
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Not applicable
SUITABLE FOR
out door
SEED TYPE
open-pollinated
PLANT TYPE
Flowering
PLANTING SEASON
Spring to summer
FRUIT SIZE
Not applicable
PLANT HEIGHT
80–120 cm
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun
WATER NEEDS
Low
HARDINESS ZONES
warm
CONTAINER GARDEN
Limited
PLANT SPACING
30–45 cm
PLANTING DEPTH
2–3 cm
GROWING CONDITIONS
Well-drained soil
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Lorenzo Trussoni Heirloom Safflower trace its history to Italy?
Can Lorenzo Trussoni Heirloom Safflower trace its history to Italy?
Yes. This heirloom variety was brought from northern Italy to Wisconsin in 1889 and has been preserved through generations of family seed saving.
Do the flower petals change color as they mature?
Do the flower petals change color as they mature?
Yes. The blooms open in yellow tones and gradually deepen to orange-red, creating changing color throughout the flowering period.
Can the mature seed heads attract garden birds?
Can the mature seed heads attract garden birds?
Yes. After flowering, the seed heads can provide a natural food source for seed-eating birds if left on the plants
Does this safflower develop a deep taproot?
Does this safflower develop a deep taproot?
Yes. It forms a strong taproot that helps the plant tolerate dry conditions once it is well established.
Can the dried petals be used as a saffron substitute?
Can the dried petals be used as a saffron substitute?
Yes. The dried petals have traditionally been used as a natural coloring ingredient and saffron substitute in certain culinary recipes.
Do the flower heads have sharp bracts that require careful handling?
Do the flower heads have sharp bracts that require careful handling?
Yes. The flower heads are surrounded by spiny bracts, so wearing gloves is recommended when harvesting blooms or seeds.