An easy to grow border-filler. Attractive large, snowy-white blooms with the deepest black centres are followed by intriguing and decorative, spidery seed pods. Will make a talking point in the garden and indoors as a cut or dried flower.

Sow March to May. Sow thinly, 3mm (1/8 inch) deep in drills 30cm (12 inches) apart in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water ground regularly, especially in dry periods.

Can also be sown September to October for spring/summer flowering next year. Sow in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Keep at between 15-20C (59-68F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 14-21 days.

For seeds sown March to May - when large enough to handle, thin out seedlings to 15cm (6in) apart.

For seeds sown September to October - when large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays. Overwinter plants in cool, light, frost-free conditions before planting out the following spring.