Shoofly/Black Chinese Lantern

This stunning annual is a must for the ornamental garden, with its rich dark purple, bell-shaped flowers blooming profusely on tall, upright stems. Shoofly—sometimes called Black Chinese Lantern—makes a dramatic statement in the landscape, attracting pollinators during the growing season and offering continued visual interest into winter. After flowering, the plant develops paper-thin seed husks that resemble small lanterns, which dry beautifully and can be left in the garden for texture or harvested for dried arrangements and crafts.

Where Can You Grow Shoofly?
Thrives in Zones 3–9. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Ideal for borders, pollinator patches, ornamental beds and cottage gardens. While not frost-tolerant, it is easy to direct sow in spring for reliable summer blooms.

History and Historical Uses
Shoofly has long been grown in ornamental gardens for its unique form and dried seed husks, reminiscent of the traditional Chinese lantern plant. Though unrelated, its aesthetic similarity and impressive stature give it its alternate name. It has also historically been used as a fly deterrent—hence the name "shoofly."

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in early spring after last frost or start indoors and transplant once soil warms.
Zones 5-7: Start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost and transplant once established.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors early; harden off before planting out in full sun after frost danger.

How to Grow and Harvest Shoofly
Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (¼in) deep; space 30–45cm (12–18in) apart.
Watering: Water regularly until established, then reduce—drought tolerant once mature.
Harvesting: Collect dried seed husks at end of season for use in crafts or leave in garden.
Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage continued flowering or let plants go to seed for self-sowing.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Allow to Seed: Let seed husks dry completely on plant.
Harvest: Pick husks when crisp and papery.
Dry and Store: Remove seeds from husks, dry thoroughly.
Store: Keep in a cool, dry place; seeds remain viable for 3–4 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)