Little Dorrit produces a large, rich yellow head with a deep chocolate centre above an imposing pyramid of huge foliage. A rather exciting little plant for the border, which will cause intrigue, excitement and evoke comment from all. Easy to grow; ideal for children.

Sow March to May. Sow thinly, 12mm (½in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart in well cultivated soil raked to a fine tilth. Germination usually takes around 21 days.

Alternatively, you can sow indoors in late winter/early spring for earlier flowering. Sow individually into 7.5cm (3in) pots at 20-30C (68-86F). When well grown, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions before planting out after all risk of frost.

When large enough to handle, thin seedlings to 45-60cm (18-24in) apart to ensure large leaves.

Prefers a well drained soil in full sun.

The green buds before the flowers open are delicious cooked in butter sauce and the seeds make a tasty snack. Write to us for a free leaflet with recipes for a wide range of edible flowers.