HB002

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Desert Chia

HB002

Salvia columbariae

This lovely desert wildflower is most often found in sandy washes below 3500' elevation in Arizona, California, and southern Nevada. The purple flower produce seeds that have high protein and oil content, and make a high fiber mucilage. Used in a refreshing drink by the Tohono O'odham. Can be used as a thickening agent.

Plant in fall to very early spring in the low desert, or early spring at higher elevations. Likes sandy and gravelly soil best. Rake planting area to loosen soil, scatter seed and cover lightly with soil. For best germination, plant when night-time temperatures are below 50 degrees F, and keep ground moist for a week. Protect young plants from hard frost. From our Seed Bank Collection.

Approximately 0.2g/ 100 seeds per packet

Limit 3 packets.

$3.95

Great germination...

Germinated great! And was even able to do a short stratification period! But it's been a month or more now and they are still stuck at almost 2" tall. Not sure what went wrong but it's probably my choice in pot size that is the culprit.
Otherwise they are great! And I can't wait to see how they turn out!

Surprise Hit!

I loved growing it, for nothing else than aesthetics. It is a striking and lovely smelling plant. The best part was the “flock” of finches that enjoyed the seeds everyday. I didn’t harvest any seeds, but I also have had very little pest pressure this year with the happy birds in my garden!

Kee’e tajkaim(Chia Tortillas)

I love making my great grandma’s chía tortillas. Grind your chia(Do in batches and use a coffee grinder) and add equal parts boiling water and some salt. Mix thoroughly and place ina ziplock, or wrap in plastic(dries out REAL quick). Press or roll out and fry as you would masa. Requires a like of chia 😁

Not growing

Not growing!

HB002

Desert Chia

Customer Reviews