Butterfly Flower Seeds Schizanthus pinnatus – Poor Man’s Orchid for Cool Season Gardens

Description Butterfly Flower Seeds Schizanthus pinnatus – Orchid-like blooms with intricate markings, often called Poor Man’s Orchid An exquisite annual with finely cut, fern-like foliage and spectacular clusters of butterfly-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, white, and yellow, often flecked or veined. Thrives in cool conditions and brings a delicate, tropical look to borders, containers, and cool greenhouses. Common Name: Butterfly Flower, Poor Man’s Orchid Latin Name: Schizanthus pinnatus Plant Height: 12–18 in (30–45 cm) Seeds per Gram: ≈ 3,500–4,000 seeds/g Life Cycle: Annual (completes cycle in one season) Available Color: Mixed: Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow with markings Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Heirloom type · Intricate orchid-like flowers for cool-season displays Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)Butterfly Flower, Poor Man’s Orchid, Fringeflower, Schizanthus pinnatus Latin nameSchizanthus pinnatus — typical seed strain for garden display Mature height30–45 cm (12–18″) — compact, bushy habit Seeds per gram~3,500–4,000 seeds/g (approx. 100,000–115,000 seeds/oz) Growth cycleAnnual — blooms profusely in cool weather, completes cycle in one year Ornamental periodLate spring to summer (cool climates) or winter to spring (mild areas) Unique trait Orchid-like flowers with intricate veining · Ferny, finely dissected foliage · Excellent for cool greenhouses �� Planting & Growing Guide �� Best planting seasonEarly spring in cool regions; late summer/autumn for winter-spring bloom in mild climates (zones 9–10) ��️ Ideal temperature55–65°F (13–18°C) for germination; grows best in 50–70°F (10–21°C). Dislikes heat. ☀️ Shade requirementPartial shade to full sun. In hot summer regions, provide afternoon shade; in cool coastal climates, full sun is beneficial. �� Sowing rate (per m²)0.2–0.5 g per square meter (approx. 700–2,000 seeds/m²) for a dense, floral display. �� Sowing depth1/8 inch (3 mm) — cover lightly; seeds require darkness to germinate well. �� Water & careKeep evenly moist until germination (10–21 days). Avoid overwatering; excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot. �� Spacing after thinningThin to 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) apart to promote air circulation and bushy growth. �� Days to bloomApprox. 90–110 days from sowing (first flowers appear in cool weather). Sun & heat sensitivity: In regions with hot summers, this cool-season annual performs best with morning sun and afternoon shade. In consistently cool maritime climates, full sun brings out the richest colors. Pro density tip: For massed beds, sow 0.5 g/m² and thin to 8″ apart. For a more naturalistic, airy look use 0.2 g/m². Stagger sowings for continuous cool-season color. Sowing quick guide: Cool season · Partial shade–full sun · 0.2–0.5 g/m² · Cover 3 mm deep Germination 55–65°F | Protect from intense heat Harvest when first buds show color for longest vase life. Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering. Deer resistant · Superb for cool greenhouses, patio pots, and intricate cut-flower arrangements.