Outstanding zinnia variety which is much admired for its exotic and extraordinary colouring. The showy, many-petalled blooms are various shades of red, fading to lime, with a bright magenta centre. Ideal in a hot, sunny spot in the garden or in pots on the patio. Cut some for vases too!Direct sow outdoors where they are to grow from april to May once the soil has warmed. Choose a position in full sun on moist, well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, at a depth of 3mm (1/8in) in drills spaced 30cm (12in) apart. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. Germination usually takes 7-14 days. When large enough to handle, thin them out to 23cm (9in) apart. Alternatively, sow indoors from March to May at 15-25°C (59-77°F). After sowing, keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged and do not exclude light as this helps germination. When all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting outdoors.