Preferences:

Mediterranean Annual. They prefer full sun, rich well drained, moist soil; but also does well in dry and hot areas although will be smaller.

Cultural Practices:

Propagation - Sow on April 15 at 65 - 70 degrees F fro 10 - 14 days under darkness.

Cultural - The plants must be watched because they self sow prolifically but are easy to thin

Problems - Aphids and fungal leaf spot

Fertilizing - Not very important as too much results in more leaves than flowers

Landscape Value:

Common Series: Bon Bon (10" - 12")

In the past the flower heads were a flavouring for broths, soups and stems. Herbalists use the petals in an ointment for dressing wounds and sores. Also used to treat toothaches and ulcers.