Propagation
Sow fresh seed under glasshouse conditions and protect from strong light in early stages. Pot on or plant directly in a prepared bed at 200 mm to 300 mm (1 ft) intervals, depending on variety. It takes 5 months from seed to flower.

Botanic information
Leaf: The soft textured large ovate leaves have a cordate base with prominent venation on the upper surface. The margin is irregularly toothed or lobed.

Flower: The showy radiate flowers have 12 to 15 ray-florets and are arranged in terminal corymb that is up to 300mm (1ft) in diameter. The colour range includes white-pink, red, mauve, lavender, purple and shades of blue and the flowers appear during early spring.

Fruit: The small fruit produces numerous seeds, up to 4,000 per gram. The seedi heads are normally ribbed and removed during cultivation to prolong the flowering period.