Description of schizanthus: Large clusters of flowers open above the finely cut, fernlike foliage. Compact varieties can grow up to 21/2 feet tall and, when loaded with flowers, tend to tumble. The range of flower color is wide: pink, white, lavender, blue, gold, red, and magenta, with many flowers marked with other colors.
Growing schizanthus: Schizanthus likes cool, sunny conditions and a rich, moist soil high in organic matter. Under warmer conditions, light shade is good. They must have perfect drainage. Because they bloom best with root restriction, they are most often grown in containers. For garden planting, space them 12 inches apart. Plant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
Propagating schizanthus: Start new plants from seeds. Sow seeds indoors 12 weeks prior to the last frost. Cover seeds; they respond to darkness. Seeds germinate in 20 to 30 days at 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Uses for schizanthus: Schizanthus is a natural for containers. It also makes a superb cut flower.
Scientific name of schizanthus: Schizanthus x wisetonensis