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Papaver rhoeas
Flanders Poppy, also known as Corn Poppy or Field Poppy, is a classic European wildflower producing brilliant scarlet-red flowers with delicate, papery petals, often marked with a dark centre. The slender stems and vivid blooms create a striking display in cottage gardens, wildflower plantings and borders.
Once a common sight in European agricultural fields, the Flanders Poppy became an enduring symbol of remembrance following the First World War, particularly after flourishing across the disturbed ground of the Western Front.
Easy to grow and quick to establish, plants flower generously through the cooler growing season and are attractive to bees and other pollinating insects. Once flowering finishes, decorative seed capsules develop and plants can readily self-seed in favourable conditions.
The mature seeds are edible and have traditionally been used in breads, cakes, biscuits and other baked goods.
Seed count: approximately 7,000 seeds/g
Approximately 1,800 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Autumn to winter in cooler locations
Subtropics: Autumn to winter
Mild climates: Autumn to early spring
Cold climates: Autumn or early spring
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly where plants are to grow, as Poppies dislike root disturbance. Scatter the fine seed thinly over prepared soil, press gently onto the surface and cover only very lightly. Keep moist during germination.
Thin seedlings to approximately 15–20 cm apart. Grow in full sun and well-drained soil. Allow selected seed capsules to mature if you would like plants to self-seed.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Seed Inoculant
Tailored for Medic species, this inoculant encourages healthy root development and efficient nutrient uptake. Helps restore soil fertility while supporting vigorous growth. Coat seeds before planting and store the inoculant in a cool, dry place until needed.
Inoculant contains dormant, beneficial bacteria that form a symbiotic relationship with legume roots, helping plants fix atmospheric nitrogen and supporting healthy growth and soil fertility. Keep unused inoculant refrigerated to maintain the bacteria in a dormant state until use.
How to Use
Mix the seed with the appropriate amount of inoculant and a small amount of dry powdered milk to help it adhere. Add just enough water to moisten the seed, mix thoroughly, then sow immediately. Broadcast or sow as usual and lightly rake into the soil.
Application Rate
5 g inoculant treats up to 1 kg of seed.
50 g inoculant treats up to 25 kg of seed.
Not Available for WA
Lobelia erinus
Crystal Palace is a classic compact Lobelia producing masses of rich, deep blue flowers against distinctive bronze-green foliage. The contrast between the dark foliage and vivid blooms creates a striking display, with plants forming neat, dense mounds throughout the flowering season.
Its compact habit makes Crystal Palace ideal for borders, edging, containers, window boxes and the front of garden beds. The small flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinating insects and provide abundant colour over a long period in suitable conditions.
Lobelia prefers cooler growing conditions with consistent moisture and performs well in full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, protection from hot afternoon sun can help extend the flowering period.
Seed count: approximately 30,000 seeds/g
Approximately 3,000 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Autumn to winter
Subtropics: Autumn to spring
Mild climates: Autumn and spring
Cold climates: Spring to early summer
Planting / Sowing
Sow the extremely fine seed onto the surface of moist seed-raising mix and press gently into place. Do not cover deeply, as light assists germination. Keep consistently moist, using a fine mist to avoid disturbing the seed.
Transplant small clumps of seedlings once established, spacing approximately 10–15 cm apart. Grow in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil and keep regularly watered during flowering.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Psidium littorale var. cattleianum
Evergreen bushy shrub 3–6m high that blooms in late spring with small white flowers that resemble little fireworks. Round, wine-red, plum-sized fruit with thin skin and a juicy sweet flavour that can be eaten raw or used in jellies, jams, drinks and baking. High in Vitamin C and useful as a hedge, poultry forage and windbreak. They dislike extended low temperatures but will tolerate light frost and are hardier than common guava. Pre-soak seed before planting into seedling trays or pre-sprout between damp paper towel inside a sealed ziplock bag. Germinates best at 24–29°C soil temperature and may take 2–8 weeks. Needs good drainage once transplanted out.
Approximately 50 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Year round
Subtropics: Spring to early autumn
Mild climates: Spring and summer
Cold climates: Spring after frost has passed
Planting / Sowing
Pre-soak seed for 24 hours before sowing or pre-sprout between damp paper towel inside a sealed ziplock bag. Sow into a quality seed raising mix and lightly cover. Maintain soil temperatures between 24–29°C for best germination results. Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination may occur within 2–8 weeks. Transplant seedlings into well-drained soil in a sunny to partly shaded position once established. Protect young plants from heavy frost. Approximately 2–4 years to first fruit under favourable conditions.
Not Available for TAS
Not Available for WA
Trichosanthes anguina
Gauda Bean, also known as New Guinea Butter Bean or Snake Gourd, is a vigorous tropical annual climber producing long, slender fruits approximately 30–60 cm long and up to 4 cm wide. The vigorous vines climb in a similar fashion to choko and benefit from a strong trellis or other substantial support.
The young fruits are harvested at around 30 cm long while still tender and are eaten cooked. They have a mild flavour and can be used in curries, stir-fries and other cooked dishes. As fruits mature they become increasingly fibrous and are best left for seed rather than eating.
A productive warm-season plant, Gauda Bean thrives in hot, humid conditions with full sun, fertile soil and regular moisture. The vigorous vines need plenty of room to climb and spread and are particularly well suited to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Approximately 10 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Late spring to summer in warm locations
Cold climates: Generally unsuitable unless grown through a long, warm, frost-free season
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly where plants are to grow once the soil is warm, approximately 2–3 cm deep. Alternatively, raise seedlings in individual pots and transplant carefully once conditions are reliably warm.
Space plants approximately 60–100 cm apart and provide a strong trellis or climbing frame. Keep well watered during vigorous growth and fruit development. Harvest fruits young at approximately 30 cm long for the best eating quality.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Grindelia camporum
Gumplant is a hardy perennial herb native to western North America, admired for its bright golden-yellow daisy-like flowers and sticky, resin-covered flower buds from which it takes its common name. Growing to around 60–120 cm tall, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat and dry conditions once established. The cheerful blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Traditionally, Gumplant has been used in Western herbal medicine to support respiratory health, particularly for coughs, colds, nasal congestion and bronchial irritation. Externally, preparations of the flowering tops have also been used as a soothing wash for minor burns, rashes and blisters. Today it is valued as both an ornamental and medicinal herb in cottage and native-style gardens.
Approximately 450–550 seeds per gram
Approximately 30 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to May and August to October
Mild climates: March to May and September to November
Cold climates: September to November
Planting / Sowing
Surface sow or cover seed very lightly with fine seed-raising mix, as light assists germination. Keep the soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Plant in a sunny position with well-drained soil, spacing plants 40–60 cm apart. Once established, Gumplant is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance beyond occasional watering during extended dry periods.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Cyclanthera pedata
Don’t let the name fool you, Achocha isn’t actually a cucumber, although it belongs to the same botanical family, Cucurbitaceae. Native to the Andes of South America, this unusual heirloom is a vigorous climbing vine producing distinctive green, softly spined fruits with a flavour somewhere between cucumber and capsicum.
Also known as Caigua, Caihua and Stuffing Cucumber, Achocha has a long history of cultivation in the Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia. Young fruits are crisp and tender and can be eaten raw in salads, sliced into stir-fries or pickled. As the fruits mature they become hollow inside, making them particularly good for stuffing and baking. The mature black seeds should be removed before cooking.
Plants are vigorous, productive climbers and can quickly cover a trellis, fence or arbour under favourable conditions. The dense vines make an excellent edible screen and will continue producing large numbers of fruits over an extended harvest period.
Achocha appreciates warm growing conditions but is also remarkably adaptable and can perform well in cooler conditions than many tropical cucurbits. Provide fertile, well-drained soil, regular moisture and a strong climbing structure.
Approximately 8 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Autumn to spring, avoiding the hottest and wettest periods
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring to early summer
Cold climates: Start under protection in spring and transplant after the last frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow approximately 10–20 mm deep directly into warm soil or raise in pots for transplanting. Keep consistently moist during germination.
Space plants approximately 60–100 cm apart and provide a sturdy trellis, fence or other climbing support. The vigorous vines can grow several metres and appreciate plenty of room.
Harvest young fruits while tender for eating raw or cooking whole. For stuffing, allow fruits to grow larger and develop their characteristic hollow centre, then remove the mature seeds before filling and cooking. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Solanum betaceum
Ecuadorian Orange is a vibrant South American Tamarillo producing heavy crops of glossy, tear-drop shaped orange fruit approximately the size of a large egg. Beneath the skin is beautiful golden-orange flesh with a distinctive tangy-sweet flavour, balancing tropical fruitiness with the characteristic sharpness of Tamarillo.
The fruit can be eaten fresh, spooned from the skin or added to fruit salads, desserts and breakfast dishes. Its sweet acidity also makes it particularly good for sauces, chutneys, jams and preserves, as well as savoury dishes where a bright, fruity acidity is welcome.
Tamarillo, also known as Tree Tomato, is a fast-growing, short-lived perennial tree, typically reaching around 2–3 m tall. Native to the Andean regions of South America, it thrives in warm subtropical and mild temperate climates but is highly sensitive to frost. Plants have relatively shallow root systems and brittle branches, so a sheltered position protected from strong winds is important.
Fruit is produced on new season’s growth, so light pruning helps encourage branching and creates more fruiting wood. With good nutrition, regular moisture and warm conditions, established plants can produce generously, with fruit generally ripening from late summer into autumn.
Approximately 35 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Most of the year in suitable locations
Subtropics: Late winter to spring
Mild climates: Spring once frost risk has passed
Cold climates: Start under protection in late winter or spring and grow in a protected, frost-free position
Planting / Sowing
Sow into trays or small pots and cover lightly with seed-raising mix. Keep warm and consistently moist during germination. Transplant once seedlings are sturdy and night temperatures have warmed.
Plant in a sheltered, sunny position with rich, well-drained soil, spacing approximately 2–3 m apart. Keep consistently watered during active growth and fruit development, but avoid waterlogging. Feed regularly and mulch well to protect the shallow root system and conserve moisture.
Prune lightly to shape plants and encourage branching, as fruit develops on new season’s growth. Protect plants from strong winds and frost.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Cucurbita ficifolia
Fig Leaf Gourd, also known as Shark Fin Melon, is an unusual and remarkably vigorous perennial cucurbit producing large green and white mottled fruits that can reach the size of a watermelon. Its common name comes from the deeply lobed leaves, which resemble those of a fig tree.
Native to the highlands of the Americas, Cucurbita ficifolia has a long history of cultivation for food. The mature fruit contains pale, fibrous flesh that separates into fine strands when cooked, giving rise to the name Shark Fin Melon. It is used in soups and savoury dishes as a plant-based substitute for shark fin, particularly in parts of Asian cuisine.
The young fruits can be cooked as a vegetable, while mature flesh is also traditionally used for sweets, preserves and jams. Young shoots, leaves and flowers are edible when cooked, and the mature seeds can also be roasted and eaten.
Plants are extraordinarily vigorous and prolific, producing long scrambling vines that need considerable room or a very sturdy trellis. Fruits have a hard rind and excellent keeping qualities, allowing mature, undamaged fruit to be stored for an extended period after harvest.
Unlike most familiar pumpkins and squash, Fig Leaf Gourd can behave as a short-lived perennial where winters are mild and frost-free. Established plants can become considerably more productive in their second and third years. In colder climates it is grown as an annual and should be started early to provide the longest possible growing season.
Approximately 5 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer; established plants may overwinter in protected frost-free positions
Mild climates: Start in early spring and plant out after frost
Cold climates: Start indoors in early spring and transplant after all danger of frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow approximately 20–30 mm deep into pots or directly into warm soil once frost risk has passed. When starting indoors, transplant carefully once conditions have warmed.
Allow at least 1–2 m between plants and provide substantial room for vines to spread. A strong fence, trellis or arbour can be used for support, although the developing fruits become very heavy and need adequate support if grown overhead.
Plant in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil and maintain regular moisture during vigorous growth, flowering and fruit development.
Harvest young fruits for use as a fresh vegetable or allow them to mature fully for their characteristic fibrous flesh and long storage life.
An interesting choice for seed savers, Cucurbita ficifolia is a different species from most commonly grown pumpkins and squash and is much less likely to cross with them.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Eucalyptus globulus compacta
A compact form of the iconic Blue Gum, valued for its attractive blue-green foliage and aromatic leaves rich in essential oils. Traditionally used as a source of eucalyptus oil, the leaves have long been associated with aromatherapy, air purification and household remedies. The oil is widely used in cough drops, chest rubs and cleaning products due to its distinctive fragrance and strong antiseptic properties.
Unlike the towering forms of Blue Gum, this compact selection can be maintained as a dense shrub or small tree through regular pruning, making it suitable for larger gardens, shelter plantings and productive landscapes. The foliage is highly fragrant, releasing its characteristic scent when crushed or warmed by the sun. Creamy white flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, while the dense growth habit provides habitat for birds and wildlife.
Approximately 100 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Autumn to spring
Subtropics: Autumn to spring
Mild climates: Spring and autumn
Cold climates: Spring after frost has passed
Planting / Sowing
Sow seed onto the surface of a fine, free-draining seed raising mix and lightly press into the soil without covering deeply, as light assists germination. Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged and maintain good airflow around seedlings. Position in a bright location with filtered light until germination occurs. Transplant carefully once seedlings are large enough to handle. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Prune regularly if a smaller, bushier growth habit is desired.
Not Available for WA or TAS
Grevillea robusta
A magnificent Australian native rainforest tree prized for its striking fern-like foliage, spectacular golden-orange flowers and highly regarded timber. Fast growing and hardy, Silky Oak develops into a large, elegant shade tree that provides valuable habitat and food for birds, bees and other pollinators. When in flower, the tree becomes covered in masses of nectar-rich blooms that attract a wide range of wildlife.
The timber is highly valued for fine furniture, cabinetry and woodworking projects, renowned for its beautiful golden colour and distinctive interlocking grain. Adaptable to a range of growing conditions, Silky Oak is widely planted as a shade tree, shelter tree and ornamental feature in larger landscapes.
Approximately 35 seeds per packet
80 seed/gram
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring and autumn
Mild climates: Spring and autumn
Cold climates: Spring after frost has passed
Planting / Sowing
Sow seed into a quality, free-draining seed raising mix and lightly cover. Keep moist but not waterlogged during germination. Position in a bright location with filtered light until seedlings are established. Transplant carefully once large enough to handle and plant into a sunny position with well-drained soil. Fast growing under favourable conditions and suitable for shelter belts, timber plantings and large gardens.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Cucurbita pepo
Planting/sowing: Sow in well-drained soil. In warm areas, plant in early spring. In cool areas, wait until late spring. Space appropriately for variety.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Lagenaria siceraria
Cucuzza is a remarkable edible form of bottle gourd producing exceptionally long, slender fruits with smooth, pale green skin. Also known as Italian Edible Gourd, Italian Squash and New Guinea Butter Bean, the vigorous vines can produce fruits approaching 1 m long if allowed to mature.
Despite often being treated like a zucchini in the kitchen, Cucuzza is actually a bottle gourd rather than a squash. For eating, harvest the fruits young, ideally from around 15 cm while the skin is tender and the flesh soft. At this stage they have a mild, delicate flavour and can be sautéed, fried, grilled, added to soups and stews or cooked anywhere you might ordinarily use zucchini.
Cucuzza is particularly associated with southern Italian and Sicilian cooking, where both the young fruits and tender growing tips are traditionally eaten. In Sicily the long gourds are known as cucuzza, while the tender shoots and leaves, known as tenerumi, are used in soups, pasta dishes and other summer cooking.
If fruits are allowed to grow larger, cut them lengthways and remove the developing seeds before cooking. Fully mature fruits eventually develop the hard shell characteristic of Lagenaria siceraria, a species that has been cultivated since ancient times for both food and practical uses. Mature bottle gourds have historically been dried and fashioned into containers, utensils and other household objects in cultures around the world.
Plants are extremely vigorous annual vines and require plenty of room. A strong trellis or arbour is ideal, allowing the long fruits to hang freely and develop straighter. They thrive in the same warm, fertile conditions as pumpkins and squash.
Seed count: approximately 3–4 seeds/g
Approximately 13 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring after frost to early summer
Cold climates: Spring after the last frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly into warm soil after all danger of frost, approximately 20–30 mm deep. Space plants approximately 80–120 cm apart in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil.
Provide a very sturdy trellis, fence or arbour capable of supporting the vigorous vines and developing fruits. Keep plants consistently watered during flowering and fruit development and provide generous organic matter and nutrition throughout the growing season.
For zucchini-style use, harvest fruits young and tender from around 15 cm long. Older fruits can still be eaten while the flesh remains tender, but may need peeling and the developing seeds removed. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.
Maturity: approximately 55–80 days.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Gomphrena globosa
Little Buddy is a compact, dwarf Gomphrena producing masses of bright purple, globe-shaped flowers on neat plants reaching approximately 15 cm tall. Its low-growing habit makes it particularly well suited to borders, edging, containers and the front of sunny garden beds.
Also known as Globe Amaranth, Gomphrena produces distinctive papery flowers that hold their colour exceptionally well. The blooms can be enjoyed fresh or harvested and dried for long-lasting floral arrangements. In the garden, they are also attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.
Hardy and easy to grow, Little Buddy thrives in warm weather, full sun and well-drained soil and develops good tolerance of heat and dry conditions once established. Regular picking or deadheading encourages continued flowering.
Seed count: approximately 400 seeds/g
Approximately 40 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring to summer
Cold climates: Late spring to summer after frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly or raise in trays once conditions are warm. Cover seed lightly and keep consistently moist during germination.
Transplant or thin seedlings to approximately 15–20 cm apart in full sun and well-drained soil. For dried flowers, harvest when the blooms are fully coloured and hang upside down in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
A selection of Cucurbita maxima varieties regarded as ornamental pumpkins.
Planting/sowing: Sow in well-drained soil. In warm areas, plant in early spring. In cool areas, wait until late spring. Space appropriately for variety.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis
Bok Choi 'Pechay' is a compact, non-heading Chinese cabbage producing crisp white stems and smooth green leaves on plants reaching 20–30 cm tall. Fast growing and easy to cultivate, it is prized for its mild flavour, versatility in the kitchen and excellent resistance to bolting.
The broad white stems remain tender and succulent, while the leaves offer a pleasant, mildly pungent flavour. Popular throughout Asia, Bok Choi is commonly used in stir-fries, soups, noodle dishes and steamed vegetable preparations. Plants can be harvested whole or picked leaf by leaf, much like silverbeet, allowing for extended harvests over many weeks.
A hardy cool-season vegetable, Pechay performs particularly well during autumn, winter and spring. Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for smaller gardens, raised beds and container growing.
Approximately 300 seeds per gram
Approximately 50 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: April to August
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: February to October
Cold climates: Spring and autumn
Planting / Sowing
Sow seed 5 mm deep directly into the garden or into seedling trays for transplanting. Space plants 20–30 cm apart in rows 30 cm apart. For continuous harvests, sow small amounts every few weeks throughout the growing season.
Grow in full sun to partial shade in fertile, moisture-retentive soil enriched with compost. Keep plants well watered, particularly during warm weather, to encourage rapid growth and prevent bitterness. Harvest individual leaves as required or cut whole plants at approximately 60 days from sowing.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Citrullus lanatus
Sugar Baby is a compact, early maturing watermelon introduced in 1955 and long valued by home gardeners and market growers. It produces round, dark green fruit approximately 20 cm across and weighing 3–5 kg. The bright red flesh is crisp, juicy and very sweet, protected by a thin but tough rind. This reliable variety is well suited to smaller gardens and cooler climates and has good drought tolerance once established. Fruit mature in approximately 68–86 days.
Approximately 20–30 seeds per gram
Approximately 15 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: March to September
Subtropics: August to February
Mild climates: October to January
Cold climates: November to December after frost
Planting / Sowing
Direct sow seed 15–20 mm deep into warm, well-drained soil in a sunny position, or start in pots and transplant carefully once the weather has warmed. Space plants 80–100 cm apart, allowing 1.5–2 m between rows or ample room for vines to spread. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, flowering and fruit development, reducing watering as fruit approach maturity. Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit dries, the underside turns creamy yellow and the fruit sounds hollow when tapped.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Cucurbita maxima
Atlantic Giant is the legendary giant Pumpkin grown by gardeners around the world in pursuit of truly enormous fruit. Famous for producing exhibition-sized pumpkins and forming the genetic foundation of many record-breaking giants, this is the variety to grow when ordinary pumpkins simply aren’t ambitious enough.
The huge fruits develop pale orange to reddish-orange skin and, with plenty of space, water and nutrition, can reach extraordinary weights. While Atlantic Giant is edible, eating quality is not its greatest strength. The flesh tends to be less sweet and fine-textured than varieties bred specifically for the kitchen, although surplus fruit can be cooked or used as stock feed.
Atlantic Giant was developed by Canadian grower Howard Dill from giant Cucurbita maxima genetics, with decades of selection for increasingly large fruit. It became the benchmark variety for competitive giant-pumpkin growing and remains closely associated with pumpkin-growing competitions around the world.
Plants are vigorous, sprawling vines requiring considerable room. For gardeners chasing maximum size, fruit are usually thinned so the plant directs its resources into just one or two pumpkins. For everyone else, it is simply a spectacular and entertaining pumpkin to grow, particularly with children.
Pumpkins originated in the Americas and have been cultivated for thousands of years. Cucurbita maxima includes some of the largest-fruited members of the pumpkin family as well as many familiar eating and storage varieties.
Seed count: approximately 2 seeds/g
Approximately 6 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: During the warm season, avoiding the wettest periods where disease pressure is high
Subtropics: Spring to early summer
Mild climates: Spring to early summer after frost
Cold climates: Spring after all danger of frost; start indoors where the growing season is short
Planting / Sowing
Sow approximately 20–30 mm deep directly into warm, prepared soil after all danger of frost has passed, or raise seedlings for transplanting once conditions are reliably warm.
Choose a position in full sun with deep, fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of room for the vigorous vines to spread. Allow at least 2–3 m between plants, with considerably more space beneficial when growing for maximum fruit size.
Keep plants consistently watered, particularly during flowering and rapid fruit development, but avoid regularly wetting the foliage where possible.
For exhibition-sized pumpkins, select a well-positioned developing fruit and remove competing fruit so the vine can concentrate its energy. Provide a dry surface beneath the developing pumpkin and take care not to damage the stem as the fruit expands.
Harvest once the fruit has fully matured and the stem has hardened. Cut with a generous section of stem attached rather than lifting the pumpkin by its stalk.
Maturity: approximately 120 days.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Gomphrena globosa
Choice Mixed Gomphrena is a hardy, free-flowering annual producing masses of distinctive globe-shaped blooms on tall, slender stems. The mixture includes a cheerful range of colours, typically including pink, purple, magenta, white and rose.
Also known as Globe Amaranth, Gomphrena is excellent for cottage gardens, borders and cutting gardens. The papery flowers are particularly valuable for fresh and dried arrangements, retaining their shape and colour remarkably well after drying. In the garden, the flowers are also attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.
Easy to grow and tolerant of heat and dry conditions once established, Gomphrena thrives in warm weather, full sun and well-drained soil. Regular picking encourages continued flower production throughout summer.
Seed count: approximately 400 seeds/g
Approximately 80 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring to summer
Cold climates: Late spring to summer after frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly or raise in trays once conditions are warm. Cover seed lightly and keep consistently moist during germination.
Transplant or thin seedlings to approximately 20–30 cm apart in full sun and well-drained soil. For dried flowers, harvest stems when the blooms are fully coloured and hang upside down in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.