A handsome easy to grow annual, with attractive chocolate centres, surrounded by a circle of gold. Flowering 3 months from sowing and continuing throughout the summer. Height: 30-45cm (12-18in).
Sow March to April on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays. Cover seed 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 will usually take 7-14 days.
When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise young plants to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 23-30cm (9 to 12 inches) apart.
For best results, provide a well-drained soil in full sun.