Datura metel Double Blackcurrant Swirl
Half-hardy Annual - Min 45F
- Flowers: Summer
- Soil: Well drained
- Zones: 10
- Height: 5 feet
- Germination: Experience Useful
- Aftercare: Easy
- Special Features: Flowers in first year
- Ideal for: Conservatory, Greenhouse, Patio, Tubs
Description
A dynamic border, container or conservatory plant with large, beautifully double frilled flowers of blackcurrant and lilac-mauve. The many flowers are earlier than most and continue through to frosts outdoors. Flowers mid summer-autumn. Height 1.4m (5ft)
Sowing Instructions
| Sowing time: | February to March. |
Soak seed in warm water for 24 hours before sowing. Place seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at a temperature of between 15-20ºC (59-68ºF). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination usually takes 21-60 days.
Growing Instructions
When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Plant out once plants are well grown, 1.2m (4ft) apart. For best results, provide a moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Do not feed plants, but water well.
Aftercare Instructions
Remove seedpods regularly to encourage further blooms. Plants can be overwintered in frost-free conditions. Cut back to the base and keep plants barely moist until spring.