A colourful mixture of decorative ornamental Gingers. Lush, exotic foliage gives rise to stems featuring racemes of sweetly scented blooms in an array of tropical colours. Can be grown in the UK like Cannas, or in a conservatory. Plants will flower in the second year from sowing and are fully hardy in southern parts of the UK. Height: 120-180cm (4-6ft).

Sowing Time: Sow seeds immediately on receipt. Sow in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 21-60 days.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 60cm (24in) apart or growing on in large containers.

For best results, provide a rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and with protection from cold winds. In frost-prone areas, either grow in containers or give winter protection by applying a thick winter mulch.