A strong, vigorous annual, up to 3m high, with coarse green leaves and abundant, multi-headed flowers, in late summer, with dark brown centres and ray florets which may be rich yellow, terracotta orange, dark red or warm brown
2.5-4 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Sow in spring and grow in full sun in any fertile, well-drained, neutral, or preferably calcareous, soil. The flowers attract bees and other insects, and the edible seeds provide food for birds, especially finches
Propagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
No pruning required
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and Sclerotinia diseases