Bearsfoot (Polymnia uvedalia), packet of 10 seeds

Family:  Aster (Asteraceae)
Hardy to Zones 5 to 9
(Smallanthus uvedalius) Herbaceous perennial.  Native to the Eastern US.  The stems bear opposite, 3-lobed leaves that resemble the foot print of a bear, flowers bright yellow and black. The plant resembles Yacon, to which it is related.  The resinous root is a traditional salve making ingredient and was used by the Eclectic physicians as a specific remedy for enlargement of the liver and spleen. Plant prefers full sun to part shade and rich, deep, moist soil.  Sow in fall or spring.  Seed has a very hard testa and germinates best when given fire treatment.  I discovered this when I burned off the brush in part of my garden and the main thing that came up afterwards was the Bearsfoot, and previously it had never really shown itself.  Sow the seed 1/2 inch deep in a non-plastic flat and build a flash fire on top of it.  Allow to burn out, then water through the ashes.  Keep evenly moist and in the sun.  Germination occurs within 90 days.

10 Seeds/pkt., Open Pollinated, Untreated, NO GMO’s