A free-flowering vigorous climber for quickly covering trelliswork, obelisks and fences. In summer, an abundance of exquisite white blooms with blue-mauve streaks are produced, their antique appearance giving an air of yesteryear. Climbs to 180-240cm (6-8ft).

Sow March to April. Soak seeds overnight in tepid water before sowing. Sow at 20-25C (68-77F) on the surface of a free draining, damp seed compost. Cover with a layer of compost, 6mm (1/8 inch) deep. Place in a propagator or seal container in a polythene bag until after germination which takes 10-21 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination.

Transplant when large enough to handle into 13cm (5 inch) pots. Grow on in cooler, well lit conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12 inches) apart. For pot plants, plant into loam-based soil in 20cm (8 inch) pots. Grow on with plenty of light, but shade from direct sun. Remove spent flowers regularly.

Prefers a sunny, sheltered, warm site. Flowers mid summer to autumn.

Harmful if eaten