Neighbor Says She Planted It...I think it’s a weed...

by Eric
(Pam Beach FL)

Flower

Is this something that someone would plant or is this just a naturally occurring “weed”; like a dandelion?

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Actually...
by: Jacki Cammidge, Certified Horticulturist

This is some kind of Calliopsis. They are grown as annuals, and are often part of mixes, like wildflower or butterfly mixes. The bees love them too. They originate in prairie conditions, so full sun, fairly dry well drained soil.

They are usually yellow, but often, new cultivars are striped with red, in concentric circles, or with red centers, surrounded by yellow. There are even double forms, which although pretty, are not as attractive to butterflies and other pollinators.

Collect the seeds when it finishes blooming - they may revert back to the original yellow form, or, you may find a brand new wonderful variety.

More here on Bing's image search.

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