Elegant, late summer flowering perennials, producing their gorgeous, well shaped blooms mainly in rose to pink shades for many weeks and providing the perfect end to the summer. Happy in sun or light shade. Flowers late summer/autumn, Height: 60cm-1.2m (2-4-ft).

Sow in spring or autumn 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good seed compost. For best results the seeds should be pre-chilled before sowing. To do this sow as above and seal inside a polythene bag, leave for 2 weeks at 15-18C (60-65F) then place in a fridge (not freezer) for 6 weeks. Then return to 15-18C and exclude light until germination starts in 1-3 months. When the seedlings are large enough to handle transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and place in a cold frame. After one season, plant out 30cm (12in) apart in moist, well drained soil in sun or part shade. Once established do not replant. Flowers best in its second and subsequent years.

Harmful if eaten