Spectacular 4in sponge like tight blooms appearing as a solid mass on compact plants. Self cleaning as spent flowers disappear under fresh blooms. Excellent for bedding, pots, tubs, patios etc. Flowers mid to late summer. Height 16-18in.

Sow from late winter to spring in John Innes Seed Compost just covering the seed with compost. Make sure that the compost is moist but not wet and seal in a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 5-10 days at 21-24C (70-75P).

Transplant when large enough to handle into 8cm (3in) pots, and grow on in cooler conditions, Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil.