Compact, bushy mounds of bluish evergreen foliage erupt into a sea of mauve-blue flowers in late spring and are the closest yet to a true blue Dianthus. Ideal planted in borders, rockeries and containers, flowering over a long period each summer for many, many years.

Sow February to June or September to October. Sow seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a very light sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at a temperature of 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 usually takes 14 to 30 days.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays. Plant out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12 inches) apart.

For best results, provide any ordinary, well-drained soil in full sun.