Up to 3in camellia flowered double blooms of scarlet, carmine, purple-rose, salmon, shell pink and white. More top flowering than previous strains with marked tolerance to drought making them suitable for containers. Tom Thumb is a more vigorous and robust relative of the Busy Lizzie. Flowers summer. Height 20-30cm (8-12in).

Sow in spring 3mm (1/8in) deep in good seed compost. Germination usually take 9-14 days at 18-21C (65-70F).

Transplant as soon as possible after germination into 7.5cm (3in) pots and lower the temperature to 15C (60F). Growth is fast and they may need to be moved to 13cm (5in) pots before planting out.

For large single flower spikes, do not stop, merely remove side shoots and first formed flowers. For neater compact bushes pinch out the growing point when 7.5cm (3in) tall. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost 45cm (18in) apart in full sun or part shade in a warm sheltered spot.