Cartamus – 10 Seeds, Saffron, Flowers for Drying, Special, Easy to Grow, High Germination, Non-GMO

Discover the beauty and versatility of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), also known as Safflower, an exceptional addition to your garden. These vegetable seeds, guaranteed non-GMO and with a high germination rate, are the ideal choice for both amateur and experienced gardeners looking to grow a plant with unique characteristics and easy cultivation. Safflower is distinguished by its vibrant yellow-orange tubular flowers, perfect for drying and as an economical and delicate alternative to saffron, adding a touch of color and flavor to any space. Botanical name: Carthamus tinctorius Seed Quantity: 10 Safflower Seeds Plant Type and Cultivation Cycle: Annual, with a relatively short growth cycle from sowing to flowering. Plant height: Generally between 60 and 120 cm, with sturdy, branched stems. Uses: Ideal for dried flowers and long-lasting floral arrangements. The petals are used in cooking as a delicate spice (a substitute for saffron) to color and flavor risottos, breads, and desserts. Furthermore, the plant has historically been used to produce natural dyes and vegetable oil from the seeds. Tasting Notes: The flowers have tubular heads ranging from bright yellow to deep orange, slightly spiny but extremely decorative. The dried petals have a subtle aroma and a bittersweet flavor. Hardiness and Origin: A robust and drought-tolerant plant, particularly suited to hot, dry climates. Native to the arid regions of the Middle East and India. Sowing period: Direct sowing in open ground is recommended in spring, after the last risk of frost, when the soil temperature is above 10°C. Harvest time: The flowers can be collected in summer, when they are fully open, preferably in the morning after the dew has dried, for drying or culinary use. Optimal conditions for germination: Requires a soil temperature between 15-20°C and good exposure to sunlight. Lightly covering the seeds promotes germination. Soil type: Prefers well-drained soil, even poor or sandy, with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. Avoid waterlogging. Recommended exposure: Full sun is essential for abundant flowering and vigorous growth. Germination Times: Seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days under optimal conditions. Pot or ground cultivation: It grows best in open ground thanks to its deep root system, which allows it to withstand drought. It can be grown in large pots (at least 30 cm in diameter) with good drainage, placed in a sunny spot. Quality Specifications: Non-GMO (non-genetically modified) seeds and selected for high germination, ensuring a vigorous and reliable start to your crops. Choosing our safflower seeds means choosing an easy and rewarding grow. With its high germination rate and intrinsic hardiness, this ornamental and spice plant will provide you with abundant blooms, ideal for drying or enhancing your dishes as a genuine alternative aromatic herb. It's the perfect solution for those looking for organic garden seeds or wanting to add an exotic touch to their garden with a plant that requires minimal care and offers a great visual and culinary impact. Ideal for creating magnificent dried bouquets that retain their color for a long time or for experimenting with new flavor nuances in the kitchen, safflower is an investment in the beauty and functionality of your green space.