Flowers: Summer

Height: 4 feet

Hardiness Rating: 4 5 6 7 8 9

Germination: Experience Useful

Aftercare: Care Required

Description: A real paradox! This is the rare and most unusual 'purple cone flower' with yellow flowers. Back in 1902 it was first named Brauneria paradoxa and after further changes to its taxonomy is now a member of the Echinaceas. A prized and seldom offered border plant. Seed is limited to first come-first served so order early!

Sowing Instructions: Sow from February to late June at 20-24C (70-75F) on the surface of a good seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or Sow-Lite (vermiculite). Ensure the soil is damp but not wet and seal inside a polythene bag until after germination, which usually takes 10-21 days.

Growing Instructions: When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Once well established, harden off for 10-15 days before planting out, after all risk of frost, 45cm (18in) apart in sun or part shade on ordinary well drained soil.

Aftercare Instructions: Flowering is prolonged if flower stalks are cut off as soon as the flowers fade.