What it needs & gives back
↓ Needs
Lightfull sun
Watermoderate to high
↑ Gives back
Mulch_biomasshigh
Seedshigh
Nectarhigh
Pollenhigh
Companions
plantplantplantplant
Tomato
Can provide shade for tomatoes in hot climates.
Common bean
Can provide physical support for pole beans to climb.
Corn Maize
Can provide shade for corn in hot climates, and both benefit from similar growing conditions.
Courgette marrow
Provides shade for squash and can act as a physical support for vining varieties.
Through the year
Through the year
JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceSeeds germinate and emerge when soil temperatures consistently reach 10°C or higher.
floweringFlowering typically begins 60-90 days after emergence, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
fruitingSeed development follows flowering, with seeds maturing over approximately 30 days.
harvestHarvest occurs when the back of the flower head turns yellow and the seeds are plump and firm, typically 15-30 days after fruiting is complete.
senescencePlants begin to senesce and die back with the onset of the first autumn frosts.
Soil interactions
Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatesboron, potassium, phosphorus
Soil textureloam, sandy_loam
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceLow
Propagation
Methodsseed
Difficulty1 / 5
Establishes in~0 yr
Self-seedingModerate
Wildlife & pests
Attractsbees, birds, beneficial_insects
Can host pestsaphids, cutworms, sunflower_moths
Can host diseasesrust, powdery_mildew, sclerotinia_rot