1000 Scarlet Toothcup Seeds - Rotala ramosior Native Wetland Wildflower

Scarlet Toothcup (Rotala ramosior) is a delicate native annual wildflower found in wetlands, marshes, and along pond margins across much of North America. It forms low, spreading colonies of slender stems with small, bright pink to reddish flowers that appear from summer into fall. This understated beauty is an excellent choice for rain gardens, bog gardens, water-wise plantings, and naturalized areas where its subtle color and texture can be appreciated up close.

As a native wetland species, Scarlet Toothcup supports local ecosystems and provides forage for pollinators. Its low-growing habit makes it a useful groundcover in moist soils, and it can be grown in shallow water at the edges of ponds or in consistently wet garden beds. The plant is adaptable and easy to grow from seed when given the right conditions.

Plant Features

• Native annual wildflower with small, vivid pink-red flowers
• Low-growing, spreading habit ideal for moist soils
• Blooms from midsummer through fall
• Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects
• Well-suited to rain gardens, bog gardens, and pond edges

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Rotala ramosior
• Plant Type: Annual wildflower
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist to wet, loamy or sandy soils
• Water Requirements: High; prefers consistently wet conditions
• Growth Habit: Low, spreading
• Bloom Season: Summer to fall
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Mature Height: 6-12 inches
• Spacing: 6-12 inches

Planting & Care

Sow Scarlet Toothcup seeds on the surface of moist, weed-free soil in spring after the danger of frost has passed. Press seeds gently into the soil but do not cover them, as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently wet, but not flooded, until seedlings are established. For best results, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly in a prepared bed with constant moisture.

Once established, Scarlet Toothcup requires little care beyond maintaining soil moisture. It thrives in boggy areas and can be planted at the margins of water features. Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming, or allow seeds to drop for natural reseeding. This native annual may return each year from self-sown seed in favorable conditions.

What's Included

1000 Scarlet Toothcup seeds (Rotala ramosior).