Large, ornamental, pale-blue globes that cleverly change colour to white as they age, creating an attractive two-tone effect throughout the flowering season.

Sow February to June or September to October. Sow seed in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of vermiculite. After sowing, seal container inside a polythene bag and germinate at a temperature of 15-20ºC (59-68F) until germination which can take 1-2 months. If seeds have not germinated after 2 months place the container and bag into a refrigerator (not freezer) for a further 3-6 weeks. Then, return to 15-20ºC (59-68F ). Germination can be slow. Examine container regularly and carefully transplant individual seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays.

Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost ,45cm (18in) apart in ordinary, well-drained soil in full sun.