A spectacular long flowering species, with rich, ruby red stems flanked in whorls of lipped, candypink flowers. With serrated, deep green foliage for the perfect contrast. Height: 60-90cm (2-3ft).
Sowing Time: February to June or September to October. Sow seed in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Keep at a temperature of between 15-20C (59-68F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination can take 1-4 months.
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, 60cm (24in) apart. For best results, provide any ordinary, well-drained soil in full sun.