A beautiful hardy bulb with white pendant 1½in (4cm) blooms heavily chequered with pink, plum or purple. Can be grown in grass and often self seeds to make delightful colonies of nodding bells. Flowers spring, Height: 15cm (6in).

Sow thinly from autumn to spring in a good seed compost with 1/3rd coarse grit or perlite added. Just cover the seed with compost and then add 6mm (¼in) of chippings or grit. Place outside in a shady spot, open to the weather. Germination can take 1-12 months, Keep the compost moist through the summer, once most have germinated, move to a coldframe or well lit spot in the garden and keep well watered.

Transplant carefully when the bulbs are dormant and grow on for 2-3 seasons before planting out in full sun and well drained soil 10-15cm (4-6in) apart.

They can grow in grass if it isn't cut until the leaves die down.