Undoubtedly one of the world's loveliest annuals. Slender spikes of shell like, rose pink flowers spring From a mound of small, glossy, dark green leaves. At the back of the flower are two short spurs and the throat is tinged with purple and marked with a yellow spot. Easy to raise it thrives in ordinary garden soil and Flowers and flowers! Superb for sunny borders and excellent in containers. Flowers early summer to first frosts. Height 30cm (12in).

Sow late winter to spring at 15-18C (60-65F), 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good seed compost. Germination usually takes 14-21 days.

As soon as the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into boxes. Pinch out the growing points when 5cm (2in) tall and again when the side shoots reach 5cm (2in). Gradually acclimatise to outdoors conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost 15cm (6in) apart in full sun in ordinary, well drained soil.

As the flowers start to fade the plants can be cut back with scissors to around 7.5cm (3in) above soil level and they will re flower. Repeat again late in summer for early autumn flowers.