Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa) This relative of Elecampane grows to impressive dimensions (4’ wide x 7+’ tall) and puts on a flashy show in late summer. Roots are used in ayurvedic herbalism. Seeds are typically deeply dormant, cold stratify 60+ days or store dry for 12+ months. Seeds should be surface shown and exposed to light for best germination. A packet of seeds contains 1/2tsp, 100+ seeds. Bulk seeds is 1/4 cup seeds, several thousand seeds. Grows easily in sun to part shade in most soils. Easily self sows, so deadheading is advisable. Because of possible weed potential, do not abandon. Plants are two-year old seedlings, well established.

Elecampane (Inula helenium) - This Eurasian perennial is a famed medicinal, but also a very ornamental plant, with large clusters of showy yellow flowers. Long history of use in Western Herbalism and remains popular. Needs light to germinate, so surface sow. Zone 3 hardy. Grows easily in sun to part shade. Self-sows a bit less then Pushkarmool, but still worth deadheading to lower weed potential. Do not abandon. Weed pressure may be higher in other places. A Packet contains about 50 seeds

Giant Fleabane (Inula magnifica) - Another Elecampane relative native to Eurasia. Of the 3 Inula species I grow this one produces the least root mass (the part used in herbal medicine) and has the least history of medicinal use. That said, this one is probably the prettiest and is definitely the least prone to self-sowing, so if you are looking for a Inula for a ornamental flower garden, this is the one I would recommend. A seed packet contains 1/5 tsp, ~200 seeds. Needs light to germinate so surface sow. Zone 3 hardy. Sun to Pt. Shade. Most soils.