One of the most beautiful, striking and unusual Perennial Geraniums with mauve-blue splashes and flecks on pure white petals, each 3cm (¼in) flower head appearing to be individually designed and painted. A fascinating, rare and prized border plant, coming remarkably true from seed. Flowers summer. Height: 45-75cm (18-30in).

Sow from February to late June in a good free-draining seed compost just covering the seed with compost or vermiculite. Make sure the compost is moist but not wet and seal inside a polythene bag. Leave at a temperature of 13-15C (55-60F). If no germination has occurred after 4-6 weeks, place in a refrigerator for 3-6 weeks. During this period observe regularly and remove from the fridge if the seeds start to germinate. After 3-6 weeks return to 13-15C (55-60F).

Transplant when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in a cold frame. Plant out the following spring 60cm (24in) apart in a moist, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade.

Cutting back old flowering stems keeps the plants tidy and often encourages a further flush of flowers.