Monotropa uniflora-Indian Pipe, Corpse Plant

Propagating Indian Pipe is almost impossible since it is not a plant but a fungus that relies on the sugars from the trees in the forest soil. It does not produce chlorophyll and is a non-photosynthesizing plant, so it does not require sunlight. It is related to blueberries and heathers so unless you live in a forest there will be no reason to propagate it or it will succumb. However its flowers and stems are all white, reminds some of Lily of the Valley, blooms in mid summer to early fall, is hardy in Zones 4-8, and grows to 6-12" in height and is native to Asia, North America and South America.

Baptisia australis-False Indigo, False Lupin

Propagating False Indigo is best done by cutting or seeding because it’s roots are deep underground and it takes an axe to split its dense base and then you need to get at least two buds to insure that the transplant lives, however it could take up to three years before it blooms. Take cuttings between January and March. Although one would assume by its name that it is a native to Australia it is actually a native to the US, Central and Eastern, and hardy in Zones 3-10. It reaches a height of 36-48" blooms in late spring to early summer and its flowers are bluish-purple. It will take either full sun or partial shade in well drained soil and because of its deep roots it is drought resistant.

Nelumbo lutea-American Lotus

Propagating American Lotus is easy since American Natives ate the tubers as sweet potatoes and the leaves as spinach. Cut the tubers that have at least 2 eyes and then replant into soil in pots with at least 6" of water on top, but not more then 4 feet, with the pot sitting in soil. They need to be fertilized once a month and requires full sun. Initially is was a native to the Southeast but spread throughout the country, is prohibited in Connecticut but endangered in Michigan, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Hardy in Zones 4-11. Its bloom is a light yellow, reaches a foot in diameter, and flowers from mid summer through early fall.

Tradescantia pallida-Purple Heart or Purple Wandering Jew

Propagating Purple Heart is simple. Break off a brittle stem section and make certain the leaf nodule is planted under the surface of the sand and it should root easily with watering. They are easy to transplant as well. They can be invasive in Zones 8-10. A native of Mexico. As some of you know wandering jew can be found in hanging baskets inside the home. Its flowers are pink and bloom year round in the right climate. It will reach a height of 12" and prefers full sun but will also accept partial shade.