Cerinthe major

Hardy Annual

• Flowers in : Summer
• Germination : Easy
• Aftercare : Easy
• Ideal for : Bedding, Borders
• Height : 24 inches

Description

The original species, native of S. Europe with sea green bracts often tinged in purple. The tubular flowers are a wonderful bicoloured contrast of yellow and maroon. May also be sown in situ.

Sowing Instructions

Sow in March 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good seed compost. Make sure the compost is moist but not wet and seal inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 5-21 days at 21C (70F). The seed can also be sown in mid to late spring where it is to flower and covered to a depth of 3mm (1/8in).

Growing Instructions

Transplant the seedlings when large enough to handle into boxes spacing them 5cm (2in) apart. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost 30cm (12in) apart in full sun and ordinary well drained garden soil.