Indulge yourself by growing this rare, mauve form of the exquisite Himalayan Blue Poppy. Scintillating, silky blooms aloft downy foliage give an absolutely breathtaking effect when planted in groups in shady borders and woodland areas. A collector's item for the border. Prefers a deep, moist, loamy soil in part shade.

Sow February to June or September to October. Place seed on the surface of a good free draining compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal container inside a polythene bag and place outdoors in a coldframe or sheltered corner. Keep the compost moist and protect from heavy rain but not frost; germination can take 1 to 3 months. Once germinated, place at 10-15C (50-59F) and water carefully to avoid damping off problems.

Transplant into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots once seedlings have 2 true leaves. Grow on in cooler conditions, with shade from strong sunlight. When well grown, plant 45cm (18 inches) apart in deep, moist loam in a sheltered, partially shaded position.