This biennial is easy to grow and attracts butterflies. Its large flowers with decorative red accents around a black center have a more than perfect appearance. This plant typically begins to bloom in its second year of growth, but sometimes it reveals its beauty in the first year.
For spring sowings, mix the seeds with damp soil and refrigerate them for 30 days before planting. Keep the soil slightly moist until germination, which usually takes between 15 and 20 days.
Water the seedlings regularly until they establish themselves. This plant grows quickly and requires little care. Although it thrives in fairly dry soil, it performs better with occasional watering during dry spells. Mature plants tolerate heat, drought, as well as clay or rocky soils.
