Height: 18 inches

Position: Full Sun

Hardiness Rating: 4 5 6 7 8

Germination: Experience Useful

Aftercare: Care Required

Description: An intricate gem for growing by the pondside or in any moist area. Crowds of tightly spiralled, glossy rushes are thrown up from the central base, appearing like corkscrews and frequently becoming dusted in bloom resembling bronze firecrackers.

Sowing Instructions: Sowing Time: September to April. Sow seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays. Cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal the container in a polythene bag and place on the bottom shelf of a fridge. Check regularly to monitor germination. After 3 weeks, move to a temperature of about 6-12C (43-54F), keeping the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 1 month.

Growing Instructions: When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart.

Aftercare Instructions: For best results, provide a moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Can also be grown in up to 8cm (3in) of water or boggy soil.