Flower Seeds

A mix of spikey blooms in orange, purple, red, salmon, terracotta, and white. The Celway celosia series is known for its long vase life, strong stems, and small top leaves. One central plum is surrounded by several smaller spikes for a well-filled look. Suitable for dense plantings in a greenhouse, high tunnel, or field/garden. 102-122cm (40-48″) height. Pinch at seedling stage to induce branching.

Rudbeckia hirta. We did a double take when we saw this remarkable Rudbeckia during the summer flower trials. Large and very attractive bronze and chocolate coloured blooms appear over a very long flowering period from mid summer to frost. Cappuccino Rudbeckia seeds are an excellent garden performer with huge, richly coloured flowers to 10cm (4″) across covering plants growing to 45-50cm (18-20″) tall. This Rudbeckia would work well in a half-barrel or other large containers, and it looks sensational in big plantings. Impressive, low maintenance, and drought tolerant for xeriscaping. Deadhead spent flowers for a longer display. In very mild conditions, this plant may survive to bloom a second, or even third year. We treat it as an annual.

Lobelia erinus. Vivid navy blue flowers adorn this tiny, trailing Lobelia, making it ideal for stuffing between other plants as a ground cover. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Grow Regatta Midnight Blue Lobelia seeds in window boxes or hanging baskets, and allow it to cascade over the edges of any container. In moist soil it will thrive in full sun or partial shade. This trailing Lobelia looks fabulous with Alyssum, and fills in empty corners really well. Sow the tiny, dust-like seeds on the surface of moist soil, and do not transplant outside until night time temperatures are well above 10°C (50°F). Regatta Midnight Blue is a recipient of the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.

Viola cornuta. We loved this petite pansy as soon as it bloomed, and it bloomed in the first year, over a long period. Just 14 to 16 weeks after seeding, its small, very dark, and flat-faced flowers began to appear. With regular deadheading Back to Black just blooms and blooms. The foliar growth is vigorous, but the stature of the plants remains compact at about 15cm (6″) tall. It would look great in containers or window boxes, but it takes on a wonderful appearance in mass plantings. The flowers are actually very deep purple, but so deep that they appear black from a few feet away. Each delicate flower is streaked in the centre by a brush of golden yellow. The edible flower petals look amazing scattered on ice cream. Sow in early spring for summer flowers, or as late as July for winter blooms. It’s hardy in Zones 5 to 9.