Devil's Claw How to Germinate

While visiting my daughter in Arizona, I bought some seeds for Devil's Claw. The packet says to remove the seed coat but I can't figure out how to do this without destroying the seed inside. I've tried just scarifying the rounded end but that didn't work either. The outer coat of the seed is very tough and knobbly, almost like a football skin.

Anyone else grow this or have any ideas?

Jane

Hi Jane,

I don't have any experience with Devil's Claw seeds, but I found soaking Brugmansia seeds actually softens the outer part. It is a whole lot easier to take it off after a day or so. If you are worried about the seed, try softening the outer part by enclosing it in a moistened coffee filter, inside a plastic bag. It will take a bit longer, but the results will be the same.

Good luck,
Elsa

Hi Jane - I went to the website of Native seeds/ SEARCH in Tucson and they gave these directions:

"Culture
Presoak seeds for better germination. Plant with summer rains, 1/2 inch deep, and allow 2-4 feet between plants. Plants respond to hot, humid conditions of the summer monsoons."

Sounds like an echo of Elsa's advice. HTH!