Boldly contrasting, big creamy white flowers with deep chocolate centres. Excellent for flower arranging and great at back of borders or against a tall wall where they provide atmosphere and contrast. Flowers summer. Height 4-5ft.

Sow early spring to early summer outdoors where they are to flower. Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing. Sow 12mm (½in) deep in rows 45cm (18in) apart. Germination usually takes approximately 21 days.

When large enough to handle thin out to 45cm (18in) apart.

They prefer a sunny open site but will grow in most sites and soils.

The green buds before the flower opens are delicious cooked in butter sauce and the seeds make a tasty snack.