Early flowering, attractive bright red double and semi-double flowers highlighted with striking patches of brilliant white. Scrumptious in borders or containers. Avoid over-watering to encourage doubleness of flowers.

Height: 25-30cm (10-12 inches).

Sow February to March in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 10-21 days. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays.

Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 23-30cm (9-12in) apart or plant into baskets and containers of good multi-purpose compost.

For best results, provide a moist, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade.