It may be safely accounted as one of the easiest, showiest and most beautiful of all hardy annuals. From early summer to autumn, brilliant blood-red flowers with a beautiful satin sheen are produced. Height: 35-45cm (15-18in).

Best sown where they are to flower in spring, or late summer/early autumn for overwintering. Sow 3mm (1/8in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart in well cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. For winter/early spring flowering pot plants in a cool greenhouse or conservatory sow in late summer/early autumn. Water sparingly until the weather warms up.

Thin out the seedlings to 10-15cm (4-6in) apart. They prefer a light well drained soil and a sunny position.