Flowers: Dependent on sowing time

Height: 6 inches

Position: Sun or Partial Shade

Germination: Experience Useful

Aftercare: Easy

Description: They resist both heat and cold, and are earlier flowering than other varieties in this class carrying blooms up to 4in across in a wide and iridescent range of colours.

Sowing Instructions: Sow late winter/spring or late summer. Sow 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in good seed compost excluding light as darkness is beneficial. Germination usually takes 14-21 days at 19-24C (65-75F). Keep the soil just moist and avoid high temperatures which will prevent germination.

Growing Instructions: When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow cool. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 23-30cm (9- 12in) apart in most soils, sun or part shade.

Aftercare Instructions: Summer sowings should be moved to a cold frame and planted out in early spring.