Enormous pure white 'Catherine wheel' blooms with prominent yellow stamens adorn stems to a height of 60-90cm (24-36in). The stunning stems, lilac in bud, last the whole summer. An extremely rare and unusual perennial plant. Michauxia can be used for the border or in the conservatory. Leaves are dark green and glabrous.

Sow on the surface of the compost from Early February to June or in August-September in a good seed compost. Seal inside a clear polythene bag after sowing until germination, which takes 1-3 months at 15-18C (60-65F).

When large enough to handle, transplant the seedlings carefully into 7.5cm (3in) pots and water with Cheshunt Compound against Damping Off. Grow on at cool temperatures, well ventilated and in good light. Keep autumn sown seedlings just frost free through the winter and transplant the next spring. When well grown, plant out 75cm (30in) apart in fertile, deeply dug ordinary soil in a sheltered spot in full sun.

A cane may be necessary for support. Water well and in hot dry weather keep the soil moist until established. Mulch in autumn for extra winter protection, they usually die after flowering so do not disturb any self sown seedlings.