A dynamic border, container or conservatory plant with large, beautifully double frilled flowers of blackcurrant and lilac-mauve. The many flowers are earlier than most and continue through to frosts outdoors. Flowers mid summer-autumn. Height 1.4m. (5ft)

Sow February to March. Soak seed in warm water for 24 hours before sowing. Place seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at a temperature of between 15-20ºC (59-68ºF). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination usually takes 21-60 days.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Plant out once plants are well grown, 1.2m (4ft) apart. For best results, provide a moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Do not feed plants, but water well.

Remove seedpods regularly to encourage further blooms. Plants can be overwintered in frost-free conditions. Cut back to the base and keep plants barely moist until spring.

Toxic if eaten