Shoofly, sometimes called Black Chinese Lantern, is a spectacular ornamental annual, prized for its deep, dark purple, bell-shaped flowers. They appear in abundance on tall, upright stems, creating a dramatic effect in the garden. This plant attracts pollinators throughout the growing season and retains visual interest until winter. After flowering, it produces delicate, papery seed pods resembling small lanterns, which dry very well and can be left in place for their decorative texture or harvested for dried arrangements and craft projects.

Where to Grow Shoofly?
Shoofly thrives in zones 3 to 9. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Ideal for borders, pollinator gardens, ornamental beds, and country-style gardens. Although it is not frost-tolerant, it can be easily direct-sown in spring for reliable summer blooms.

History and Traditional Uses
Shoofly has long been cultivated in ornamental gardens for its unique shape and decorative seed pods reminiscent of the Chinese lantern plant. Although not related to it, its aesthetic resemblance and impressive stature earned it this alternative name. Historically, it was also reportedly used as a fly repellent, hence its name "shoofly."

Information for Canadian Zones
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in early spring after the last frost, or start indoors and transplant when the soil has warmed.
Zones 5-7: Start indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost and transplant once seedlings are well established.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors early; harden off seedlings before planting outdoors after all risk of frost has passed.

How to Grow and Harvest Shoofly

Planting: Sow seeds 6 mm (¼ in) deep; space plants 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) apart.
Watering: Water regularly until plants are established, then reduce watering — the plant becomes drought-tolerant once mature.
Harvesting: Collect dried seed pods at the end of the season for crafts or leave them in the garden for decorative effect.
Maintenance: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming, or let them go to seed to encourage natural reseeding.

Tips for Harvesting Seeds for Future Supply

Allow to go to seed: Let the seed pods dry completely on the plant.
Harvest: Pick the pods when they are dry, crisp, and papery.
Drying and storage: Remove seeds from pods and dry them completely.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place; seeds remain viable for 3 to 4 years.

Certified Organic by
Islands Organic Producers Association (Certificate #1962)