Description

Tall strong stems bearing chocolate maroon flowers, becoming almost 'black' towards the centre. This is a unique variety creating an impressive impact against most backgrounds. Flowers mid to late summer. Height 5ft.

Sowing Instructions

Sow on the surface of John Innes Compost. Make sure that the compost is moist but not wet and seal in a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 12-21 days at 15-21C (65-70F). Do not exclude light which is beneficial to germination.

They can also be sown in mid summer, overwintered in a coldframe and planted out in spring. This produces larger plants.

Growing Instructions

Transplant when large enough to handle into 8cm (3in) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost 38cm (15in) apart in well cultivated garden soil and some shelter.

Kitchen Notes

Add a cupful of petals to salads, or pick the unopened flower buds, boil for three minutes and add to salads.