- First described
- 2026
- Type
- single clone rare variant from rugelii population
Origin and significance
A S. flava var. maxima (anthocyanin-free, zero red pigments in the throat) selection from Mike's Brooks Co, GA seedling batch. This is, as far as Mike knows, the first reported maxima from Brooks Co, GA.
The Brooks Co rugelii population is itself notable: a relict patch that's now thought to be the largest rugelii population remaining in the state of GA. Genetics from this population were only recently introduced to cultivation. Of ~40 seedlings Mike was given from this population, this is the only maxima.
Why a maxima from rugelii is rare
Maxima expression is more common in flava var. flava populations from VA to SC. Mike's observation: out of hundreds of thousands of wild rugeliis seen, only one or two maximas appeared. The Brooks Co population's genetic diversity (large relict population) is what made the discovery possible despite the rarity.
Standout traits
- AF expression in a rugelii background.
- Strong yellow color, comparable to 'Goldie'.
Open question on outdoor performance
Mike's reference yellow flava 'Goldie' has a multi-year history of burning every year under outdoor full sun in his NorCal climate. Whether the Brooks Co maxima inherits this fragility is unknown. Multi-year evaluation will tell.
Distribution
Mike plans to propagate as soon as possible. Target: divisions ready 2027.
Standout traits
- Anthocyanin-free (maxima — zero red pigments in the throat).
- Super yellow expression — maximas tend to be yellower than other variants, like AF clones.
- First reported maxima from a rugelii population in Brooks Co, GA.
- Mike's general observation: maxima is much rarer in rugelii populations than in flava var. flava (where maximas are more common from VA to SC). Out of 'hundreds of thousands' of wild rugeliis seen, Mike has only seen one or two maximas.
- Color comparable to *S. flava* 'Goldie' — Mike's reference yellow flava.
Cultivation
Mike plans to propagate as soon as possible — distribution target 2027. Until then, expression evaluation is ongoing.
Mike's broader observation on yellow flavas: 'Goldie' burns every year under outdoor full sun in his climate, despite producing great color. Other yellow clones don't have this issue. Brooks Co maxima may or may not share this fragility — multi-year evaluation needed.
Photos (5)
Naming
No cultivar name. Documented as the first known *maxima* from the Brooks Co, GA rugelii population.