An easy to raise, free flowering plant for the front of the border. The brilliant sky blue flowers are freely produced and are excellent for cutting, lasting a long time in water. They can also be dried for winter decoration. Will flower the same year from a late winter sowing. Flowers summer. Height 60cm (2ft).

Sow from late winter to spring in a good seed compost just covering the seed with compost and gently firm down compost. Germination usually takes 21-25 days at 19-24C (65-75F).

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 45cm (18in) apart in a sunny spot on light well drained soil.