An easily raised perennial thriving in sun or part shade and producing strong, erect stems crammed with white to pink flowers with purple, almost black 'flamed' markings. Easy, thriving in most soils. A magnificent display. Flowers all summer. Flowers in first year.

Sow from late winter to early spring 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good seed compost. Make sure the compost is moist but not wet and seal in a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 15-21 days at 21C (70F).

Transplant when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots. Grow cool and later plant out 40cm (18in) apart into an ordinary but not rich soil in sun and some shelter.