How To Grow Job's Tears Seeds
Updated on Dec 29, 2021
By Shannon McCabe
Latin name Coix lacryma-jobi is an tropical perennial member of the Poaceae, or grass, family. Typically treated as an annual in northern gardens, it is hardy down to USDA zone 9. This beautiful grass produces a grain and is often treated as an annual in northern climates.
HISTORY
Native to southeast Asia. Traditionally used to make rosary beads and other adornments.
USES
- Ornamental
- Culinary uses
- Traditional medicinal uses
- Nick and soak seeds in warm water overnight to speed germination.
- Seeds germinate in 7-28 days (sometimes even longer).
- Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and keep them evenly moist until germinated.
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost.
- Ideal germination temperature is 68- 75 F.
- Space plants 12 inches apart.
- Plants average 4-6 feet tall.
- May overwinter and grow as perennial in USDA zones 9 and above.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Typically a pest- and disease-free plant.
- Allow seedheads to dry on plants and hand pick or cut stems and shake seeds free into a bucket or bag.
