Very imposing, sturdy plants with long, strong stems and large flower buds which break open to reveal huge 20cm (8in) flowers of startling red with black blotches. Plants require no support and ideally should be grown in groups at the back of the border. They look excellent when planted next to Red Hot Poker T&M Hybrids, T&M's Michaelmas Daisy Mixed and Rudbeckias. Flowers early summer. Height 122-152cm (4-5ft).

Sow in spring at 15-20C (60-70F) on the surface of a good seed compost, and cover with a thin layer of vermiculite. Do not exclude light, sealing in a polythene bag after sowing is helpful. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant carefully into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on cool and in good light. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and plant out 30cm (12in) apart.

They prefer full sun and a gritty free draining soil. Handle with care whilst pricking out and transplanting. Will self seed where happy.