A delightful annual from Chile and Brazil with tall branching stems and drooping sprays of apple green bells. Very exotic, yet easy to grow. Ideal for the back of the border or as a 'dot' plant among smaller bedding plants. Try growing it next to our Salvia pratensis, it looks superb. An absolute must for the flower arranger too! Height: 90-150cm (3-5ft)

Sow on the surface of a good seed compost from late winter to spring. Make sure the compost is moist but not wet and seal in a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 7-20 days at 21-24C (70-75F). Do not exclude light which is beneficial to germination.

Transplant when large enough to handle and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart in a sunny spot on light well drained soil.

Harmful if eaten