Erect annuals to around 60cm tall with mid-green, lance-shaped leaves and single or semi-double flowers in shades of pink, purple, yellow or orange borne from summer into autumn
0.5-1 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in a fertile, well drained soil in full sun
Propagate by seed; resents root disturbance so either sow in situ in late spring after the danger of frost has passed or take care when transplanting from seed sown under cover with heat in early spring
Deadhead to prolong flowering. Pinch back stems of young plants to encourage branching unless long-stemmed flowers are required
Generally pest-free
May be susceptible to foot and root rot, grey moulds, fungal leaf spot and powdery mildews