Swiss Chard - Bright Lights Mix
The Swiss Chard Bright Lights, 'Beta vulgaris (Cicla group)', has spectacular stem colors that can include yellow, gold, orange, pink, purple, or intermediate shades of these colors. Some believe the leaves of Bright Lights are tastier than spinach. The stalks crunch like celery but have a slight hint of asparagus. Bright Lights has an improved, lighter flavor and is delicious raw in salads. Swiss Chard can tolerate shade and will not get bitter in hot weather. Swiss Chard is actually a beet without the beet. instead of growing beets, the plant grows wide, dark green, heavily crumpled leaves that are very tasty. Plant in early spring, 2 to 4 weeks before last frost or as late as 2 months before first fall frost. In warm climates, plant in late summer for fall/winter crop. Chard grows best in in well drained soil with lots of organic matter. ... more
Hibiscus - Dark Red Teatime Red The Hibiscus Teatime, 'Hibiscus sabdariffa', is a robust, shrub-like annual that is attractive as a hedge or in a border. The red base of the flower is used for tea, juice, sauce, jelly, wines and pies. Hibiscus sabdariffa is widely grown in many areas of Asia, Africa and America. The fleshy red, cup-like, 1 inch base of the flower, called a calyx, is used to make cool drinks and tea. Teatime is very similar in color and taste to cranberries. The flowers begin to bloom in October. Teatime Hibiscus prefer deep, rich, fertile and well drained soil. The fruits can be harvested about 10 days after the flowers appear, while the calyces are still tender and juicy.
