Almost prostrate plants with large, brilliantly coloured flowers in shades of brilliant yellow, orange, brown, pink, red and ruby with striking zones. Dazzling in beds and makes a splendid cut flower.

Sow in late winter/early spring (February to April) in pots or trays of moist seed compost and lightly cover with a fine sprinkling of vermiculite to a maximum depth of 3mm (1/8in). Place in a propagator or seal inside a polythene bag until germination occurs. Put in a warm place at a constant temperature of 18-25C (65-77F). Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged. Germination will usually take 14-30 days.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow on in cooler conditions, watering with care. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 23cm (9in) apart in a sunny spot on light well drained soil. For pot plants, transplant finally into 13cm (5in) pots.