How we select our seeds
Our seeded paper (which we also call seed paper or plantable paper) has seeds embedded in the paper. However, in order for this to be possible, the seeds have to be small enough to stay in the paper. For example, a pea would not be a good candidate for embedding in paper, unless the paper were as thick as several layers of cardboard!
So the seeds we use are small enough to enable them to stay in the sheet once it has been made. Many Australian native trees, shrubs and flowers are suitable, as are many herbs and vegetable seeds.
The other factor which influences the seeds we use is the ability to print on the seeded paper. Many Australian natives have very small seeds (some so small that there are as many as 30,000 seeds in just one gram!) and so the seeds are easily held within the thickness of the paper, producing a relatively smooth surface for printing.
Other seeds can still be embedded in the paper but are larger and the surface of the paper is slightly raised with each seed. This paper can still be printed but care has to be taken to ensure the seeds are not damaged.
Larger seeds can still be embedded in our paper but should only be done if no printing is required (eg as a add-on to another item).
Where do the seeds come from?
We source all our seeds from seed farms within Australia. In 2023 we began planting some varieties from seed and our seed paper on our farm in the Victorian high country. In January 2024, our first batch of harvested seeds (Chamomile) were embedded in our seed paper. We hope to follow up with many more varieties as trees and flowers grow.
We encourage our plantable seed paper to be planted in domestic gardens and back yards rather than native bush areas – this also makes it easier to keep the paper moist during germination.
We use seeds of a particular species in our seeded paper. We would not normally specify the provenance of those seeds (ie where they were gathered). However, some people like to encourage the planting of seeds that have actually been gathered from the same area as they are to be planted.
If you would like local provenance seeds, we can use them to make paper specially for you. Or we could use the seeds that you supply. Subject, of course to their suitability.
Our seed range
We stock a range of seed paper with a variety of seeds.
Our main range of seed paper for custom printing includes Swan River Daisy, Lemon-scented Bottlebrush, Chamomile, Mixed flower, Thyme, Oregano, Herb Mix, Salad Mix.
Other seed paper varieties include: Forget-me-not, basil, lettuce and carrot. Printing on paper with these seeds types is dependent on artwork requirements.
Australian Natives
Using Australian natives trees, shrubs or flowers is likely to be of great benefit to bird, insect and animal life.
Brachycome iberidifolia
Swan River Daisy
Indigenous to Western and central Australia, it prefers light to medium soils in an open, sunny position but will tolerate shade. It is a very hardy, annual plant that is drought and frost resistant. It will grow in most regions of Australia. It grows to a height of 0.2m with a spread of 0.3m. The flowers are white, blue, purple or pink and daisy-like, appearing in summer, giving a vibrant display of eye-catching colour. Ideal for containers or rockeries.
The spelling of Brachycome often includes an ‘s’… Brachyscome and either spelling is considered acceptable.
Callistemon citrinus
Lemon-scented Bottlebrush
A widespread attractive evergreen shrub with red flowers 10cm long appearing all year round. It is a native of NSW, QLD & VIC.
It grows to a height of 3.5m with a spread of 2m.
(NB No sale to WA or TAS)
Ageratum, Alyssum, Chamomile, & Daisy
Flower Mix
Great for pots or garden beds this mix of flowers is not only beautiful
and attracts bees, butterflies and insects. While best planted in Autumn or Spring it can be planted all year round.
- Swan River Daisy (Brachyscome iberidifolia)
- Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)
- Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)
Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum)
Origanum vulgare
Oregano
This perennial herb grows to about 30cm with oval, soft hairy leaves and woody stems. Once established, the plants spread by underground stems and can provide excellent ground cover.
A popular flavouring in Mediterranean style cooking. It also dries well.
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme
A small-leaved perennial plant. It is a low, creeping plant that grows up to about 30cm tall. It prefers full sun or part shade and a dryish soil. Can be added to many dishes and also eaten fresh in salads.
Myosotis alpestris
Forget-Me-Not
There are many dainty blue flowers on this attractive small plant. It grows to about 30cm tall and gets covered in pretty flowers with five blue petals and a yellow centre.
Prefers semi-shaded areas and makes stunning borders or a colourful adition to rock gardens.
Petroselineum crispum, Origanum vulgare, Thymus vulgaris
Herb Mix
Includes: Parsley, Oregano & Thyme
These three herbs are favorite go to when cooking dinner each night, and they grow well together in a pot or garden bed. They can all be used fresh (great in pasta) as well as dried.
Lettuce Salad Bowl Green & Red + Wild Rocket
Salad Mix
Easy & quick growing Lettuce Salad Bowl Green & Red are not only beautiful lime green and bronze / burgundy leaves which grow in 7-28 days & become full size in 51-58 days. These leaves can be plucked from 28 days!
Wild Rocket is also a fast grower that thrives best if kept well-watered. The leaves form at the base of the plant. Harvested by picking young or mature leaves and new ones continue to form. A popular salad green with a slightly peppery flavour.
Example subheading
Chamomile
Chamomile is a small flowering plant that is native to southern and eastern Europe. It grows to a height of 15cm to 60cm with white daisy like flowers.
The flowers, blooming from late spring to early summer, have a pleasant aromatic scent.
I pick 10 flowers and place in a tea pot with boiling water for 10 minutes and have each night before bed. I find it helps me to relax and sleep better. As the petals start to fall off the plant, I then harvest and air dry in a brown paper bag for 10 days. The dried chamomile flowers also are great in tea!
