Kochia tricophylla - Kochia, Summer Cypress (Kochia tricophylla) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

Kochia tricophylla - Kochia, Summer Cypress (Kochia tricophylla) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

Annual

Kochia tricophylla, commonly known as Kochia or Summer Cypress, is an annual plant known for its striking bushy habit and bright, colorful foliage. It starts with green leaves and gradually turns red and purple in the fall, creating a stunning display. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that attract pollinators, but it is primarily grown for its vibrant, flame-like color change. Kochia is often used in landscapes, bedding plants, and as a border or accent plant due to its fast growth and dramatic seasonal color transformation.

Growing Instructions:

1. Light: Prefers full sun to thrive. It needs plenty of sunlight to develop its colorful foliage and maintain compact growth.

2. Soil: Grows well in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. It is tolerant of dry, poor soils and can adapt to a range of soil types.

To germinate Kochia seeds, surface sow them and keep moist until germination occurs in 10-14 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors after frost risk has passed.

Kochia seeds germinate best around 20–25°C (68–77°F), with about 24°C being close to ideal. They will still germinate over a pretty wide range — roughly 4–35°C — but they sprout fastest and most evenly in that mid-20s range. 

Keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy, and just barely cover the seeds or press them onto the soil surface since they like some light to germinate

3. Watering: Requires moderate watering. While it is drought-tolerant once established, regular watering encourages better growth and more vibrant foliage. Avoid waterlogging, as this can affect the plant’s health.

4. Fertilization: A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring supports its growth. Avoid excessive fertilization, as this can result in weak growth and reduce the intensity of the foliage color.

5. Pruning: Kochia tricophylla typically does not need regular pruning, but you can trim it back in the early stages of growth to promote a bushier shape. Deadhead spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance.

6. Mulching: Mulch can be used to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in drier climates, but avoid placing mulch too close to the plant’s base to prevent rot.

Stratification:

Kochia tricophylla does not require cold stratification for germination. For seed starting, sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date, lightly pressing them into the soil as they require light for germination. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 70–75°F (21–24°C). Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, harden them off before transplanting them outside after the danger of frost has passed. P

Seed count: 25