Everyone knows the simple blue Cornflower, reminiscent of Summer meadows. But this is a Cornflower with a difference, its rich purpley-black flowers giving the old plant a new twist. Grown in a sunny border, 'Black Ball' will be a talking point, its spherical flowers shooting out from tall stems. To show off the blooms to best effect, try it mixed with light green foliage such as Alchemilla Mollis and Nicotiana 'Lime Green'. Gathered in large bunches, it can also make a useful cut flower. Cornflowers were common meadow weeds in Britain before the 1920's, but sadly have been reduced greatly with modern farming practices. The flowers can be used as an astringent herb that reduces inflammation, used externally for minor wounds, conjunctivitis and mouth ulcers.

Each SeedPotT Greetings Card has a transparent resealable pot which keeps your seeds in the best possible condition. They contain seeds which transform into the flower on the front of the card. Follow the sowing instructions carefully and watch them grow over time into a unique and colourful expression of natural beauty.

Sow thinly, 6mm (¼in) deep in drills 45cm (18in) apart in well cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth.

For Spring/Summer Flowering Pot Plants: Sow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in late summer/early autumn. Grow cool in full light and water sparingly.

Thin out seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart.

For Spring/Summer Flowering Pot Plants plant out in spring after all risk of frost.