Safflower

Cultivated in China and Tibet for medicinal use, Safflower is grown all over the world in widely varying climates. The Chinese pinyin translates to Red Flower an apt description for these flowers which retain their bright orange-red color even when dried. Also well known for its oil-rich seeds, and as a dye plant. Traditionally, Chinese medicine uses safflower to invigorate the blood and aid in delayed menses, or other conditions requiring increased blood flow. Contraindicated for pregnancy and for people using blood thinners. Plants can reach 3 to 4 feet in a season in rich soil and will branch with multiple thistle like bright reddish-orange blooms in mid-summer. Annual. Hardy to Zones 3-10.