How to Grow Safflower CFO-35
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Safflower CFO-35
Carthamus tinctorius
flowerSafflower CFO-35 is a high-yielding cultivar of safflower bred for oil production and ornamental use. This thistle-like plant produces vibrant yellow-orange flowers on sturdy stems and is valued for its drought tolerance and nutritious seed oil rich in linoleic acid. It thrives in arid and semi-arid climates with minimal water requirements.
When should you plant Safflower CFO-35 in your zone?
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Example Safflower CFO-35 timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Safflower CFO-35
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Safflower CFO-35 blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Safflower CFO-35 dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-9; exceptionally drought-tolerant in zones 5-8
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Get my Safflower CFO-35 timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
7-14 daysSeeds emerge with two cotyledons; small seedlings appear 7-10 days after planting
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 2-3 true leaves appear. Protect from wind and extreme heat.
Vegetative Growth
30-45 daysPlant develops sturdy stems, pinnate leaves, and a robust root system; typically 12-18 inches tall
Reduce watering as plant establishes. Side-dress with minimal nitrogen if soil is very poor. Stake plants if in windy locations. Monitor for weeds.
Branching & Bud Formation
20-30 daysPlant becomes bushy with multiple lateral branches; flower buds begin forming at branch tips
Maintain consistent watering during this critical stage. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer (promotes foliage over flowers). Watch for early pest activity.
Flowering
30-45 daysSpiky flower heads emerge with bright yellow-orange florets; multiple blooms per plant occurring sequentially
Continue minimal watering based on rainfall. Deadhead spent flowers if growing for ornamental display. Flowers are attractive to pollinators.
Seed Development & Maturity
15-25 daysFlowers fade; seed heads develop enclosed in spiky bracts; seeds mature to pale tan/brown color
Reduce watering; allow plants to dry down naturally. Harvest when seed heads turn brown and are firm. Protect from birds if desired for seed production.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use yellow sticky traps; encourage parasitic wasps; remove infested flower heads early; cultural rotation breaks life cycle
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Hand-pick larvae early; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray during larval stage; encourage natural predators
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Monitor seed heads in late season; remove heavily infested heads; use netting to exclude beetles
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Cardboard collars around seedling stems; diatomaceous earth around base; remove debris; encourage ground beetles
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap for heavy infestations; encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps
Uses
Safflower Oil Production
CulinaryCFO-35 seeds are pressed to produce light, neutral-flavored safflower oil rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E, suitable for cooking, salad dressings, and food preparation. The oil is often used in margarine and spreads. [source]
Anti-inflammatory & Heart Health
MedicinalSafflower oil contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-6 fatty acids with potential cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits. Historically used in traditional medicine to promote circulation and support joint health. [source]
Natural Dye & Cosmetics
HouseholdSafflower flowers yield natural yellow-orange dyes for textiles and cosmetics; petals can color foods naturally. The oil is used in skincare products and lotions. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftVibrant spiky flower heads make excellent long-lasting cut flowers for floral arrangements and bouquets. Dried heads are popular in dried flower crafts and wreaths. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeSafflower flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the blooming season. Mature seed heads provide food for goldfinches and other seed-eating birds. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest seed heads when they turn brown and dry (approximately 120 days after planting). Cut heads with 6-12 inches of stem and hang in bundles in a well-ventilated area to cure for 2-3 weeks. Thresh dried heads by hand or with a flail to release seeds. Store cleaned seed in cool, dry conditions. For ornamental fresh flowers, harvest when florets are fully open by cutting just below the head.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Safflower is one of humanity's oldest cultivated crops, with evidence of use dating back 4,500 years in ancient Egypt, where it was prized for its dye and medicinal properties.
- 🌱 The CFO-35 cultivar was specifically developed for increased oil yield and earlier maturity, making it more suitable for commercial agriculture in temperate climates than traditional safflower varieties.
- 🌱 Safflower is extremely drought-tolerant and can thrive in marginal lands unsuitable for other oil crops, making it valuable for sustainable agriculture in arid regions; it has a deep taproot that can access water unavailable to other plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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