Propagation
Sow seed when ripe and place in a cold frame to germinate.
Divide the rhizome during autumn.


Botanic information
Leaf: The trifoliate leaves have broad ovate leaflets with unequal lobed bases and a long petiole. they have an acuminate apex and a spiny margin. The leaves turn reddish brown with glaucous undersides as they mature and the rachis is up to 450 mm (18in) long.

Flower: The cyathiform flower are composed of 8-sepals with the outer 4 being unequal and arranged into pairs and are deciduous as the flower opens. The other 4-sepals are spreading and reflexed (petal-like).
The 4-petals are flat or extend to form a pouch or pale purple spurs and contains 4- stamens. There are numerous flowers arranged on slender long pedestals in a nodding raceme that appears from early spring to early summer.

Fruit: The small capsule is not commonly seen and the plant is normally reproduced vegetatively.