A charming annual pansy with dainty midnight blue/black flowers. Will happily self seed in cool moist soil and ideal for rockeries, edging or growing between the cracks of paving stones. Flowers late spring-summer. Height 15-23cm (6-9in).

Sow late winter/spring or summer. Sow 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in good seed compost excluding light as darkness is beneficial. Germination usually takes 14-21 days at 16-21C (60-70F). Keep the soil just moist and avoid high temperatures which will prevent germination.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow cool. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 15cm (6in) apart in most soils, sun or part shade.

Summer sowings should be moved to a coldframe and planted out in early spring.

The petals make a colourful addition to green salads, can candied to top desserts etc. or used to make violet soup.