A charming plant from Afghanistan and Kashmir, ideal for baskets, containers and the rock garden. Although compact, its semi-trailing habit lends itself to all of these uses. Soft grey-green foliage with a profusion of lilac-blue bell shaped flowers, over a long period. Because of its attractive foliage, the plant looks good, even out of flower. Sow early to achieve flowering the same year, in which case it may be used as an annual and then transplanted to the border or rockery to continue growing. Flowers summer. Height 15cm (6in) semi-trailing.

Sow from late winter to early summer on the surface of a good seed compost. Germination takes 14-28 days at 16-18C (60-65F). Don't exclude light, sealing in a polythene bag after sowing is helpful.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings to boxes or 7.5cm (3in) pots, and grow on in cooler conditions. When well grown gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and plant out in late spring 30cm (12in) apart.

They prefer full sun and a gritty, well drained soil and like being planted in crevices in a rockery. A handful of gravel spread round the roots after planting is beneficial.