A stunning and very striking garden plant which can be used as a climber or ground cover subject. The large flower buds open to royal a deep purple, silk-like, 7cm (3in) bloom with rich red vein markings, forming a star from the very centre to the petal tips. You can also grow it in a container where it will cascade over the side, and if supported, will climb to form a dome. Flowers summer. Climber to approximately 180cm (6ft).

Sow in early spring 3mm (1/8in) deep at 21-27C (70-80F) in a good seed compost. Soaking the seed for 2 hours in cold water before sowing is helpful. Keep compost damp but not wet, sealing in a polythene bag after sowing is helpful. Germination usually takes 5-14 days.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost 30-45cm (12-18in) apart in a sunny spot on light well drained soil. Train up canes or trellis or grow as ground cover. For containers, after planting place the container in a sheltered spot for a few days to help the plants become established before moving to their permanent positions.

Seeds are very poisonous