Something quite new in Alyssum, "Apricot Shades" is a notable advance in this popular, reliable edging plant. Its qualities have been acknowledged by a Fleuroselect Novelty Award. A nice carpeting habit makes it perfect for a tidy finish to path edges and flower borders. Its unique colourings will be invaluable as complimentary shades for mixing with companion plants in tubs, window boxes and troughs. Flowers summer. Height: 8-10cm (3-4in). Spread 30cm (12in).

Sow early spring to early summer outdoors where they are to flower. Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing, 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Germination usually takes approximately 21 days.

For earlier flowers they can be sown under glass, germination takes 7-14 days at 18C (65F), pricked out into boxes and planted out when the weather is mild.

When large enough to handle thin out to 15cm (6in) apart. They prefer a sunny open site but will grow in most sites and soils.