New 2008

A very unusual purple-red flowered variety that produces predominantly single flowers in the first growing season, followed by a high percentage of these visually stunning 'twin' flowers in the second season, with the chance that some may even be fully double.

These intriguing flowers grace tall, strong stems and make superb long lasting border perennials, attracting many beneficial insects to your garden.

Sow February to July. Sow seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with compost or vermiculite to a depth of 3mm (1/8in) . Keep at a temperature of between 21-25ºC (70-75ºF). Reduce the soil temperature at night to 18C (65F) if possible during germination. After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination usually takes 10-21 days.

p>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, 30cm (12in) apart.

For best results, provide any ordinary, well-drained soil in full sun.