What has been circulating apparently mislabeled as Loasa tricolor for some time (a plant with fleshier leaves and yellow blooms), this is still quite a rare but showy annual in cultivation. Plants tend to reach upward of 18 inches tall, with rich divided green foliage and slender stalks that bear fairly large flowers with boat or tapered cup-shaped petals and tricolor scales in the center surrounding the stamens. One must be careful around this plant however, as it is a nettle; all parts of the plant, including the petals of the flower, possess stinging hairs that can result in quite the burning sensation, well-defending its colorful appearance. Seeds need no special treatment but do like warm, sandy soils.
Packets contain approx. 30 seeds each.