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established. Conradina releases a chemical that suppresses the growth of other vegetation, including weeds, and thus may be bene��cial to the gardener, but may restrict growth of other plants close by. Seeds Seeds are not commercially available, but may be collected from plants when fresh. Sow in spring in well-drained soil and keep them moist until germination occurs. Plants Conradina can be easily started from cuttings (4-inch non-branching terminal shoots) in well-drained potting soil in small pots. Mist daily and do not allow soil to dry. Prune before transplanting or within one week after transplanting. Pinch tips to encourage branching. Plants are readily available from nurseries specializing in native plants. Hardiness Conradina grandi��ora is suited for zones 9a-9b. C. canescens is best for 8a-9b. See note (right) for more information on where to plant Conradina. Care Conradina may be trimmed after ��owering, but most gardeners leave it alone and enjoy its beautiful natural form. Sections of older, well-established plants may die suddenly; remove these to encourage new growth. C. grandi��ora will tolerate some overhead or drip irrigation. Other Conradina species should be watered only during extended dry periods. Because this plant thrives naturally in dry ecosystems, overwatering may cause rot and decline. Site conditions Conradina is ideal for dry, sandy soils in full sun. It will thrive on natural rainfall. If your landscape is irrigated on a regular basis, look for a spot that remains dry. W8 Photo by Andrea England Photo by Lisa Roberts Honey bee on Conradina canescens Photo by Peg Urban Gulf fritillary with Conradina grandi��ora Photo by Ron and Diane Bynum Conradina grandi��ora with needlelike leaves Conradina canescens Note Of the six Conradina species in the state, all but Conradina canescens are endangered or threatened, and thus limited in population. Because these species can hybridize, it is important to plant the species found naturally in your area to help preserve the distinct genetic identities and ecological roles of these plants. In Polk and Highlands counties, choose Conradina brevifolia. Along the central and southern east coast, choose Conradina grandi��ora. Ask your nursery supplier for the species native to your locale. Photo by Peg Urban Conradina grandi��ora in a landscape


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