Bright yellow buds open out into glowing yellow stars that shine out from annual or prairie borders on sunny days as well as making excellent cut or dried flowers.

Sow March to April in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 10-21 days. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays.

Alternatively sow seeds thinly, 3mm (1/8in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water ground regularly, especially in dry periods. Then when the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 15cm (6in) apart.

Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart.

For best results, provide a light, well-drained soil in full sun.