Sheila, how about e-mailing the Botanical Garden for some information on the seed?

I hadn't thought of that - thanks Shirley, good idea. With any luck the 'backroom boys' might be more helpful than the staff we did meet . . .

OK - done it. I will let you know if they respond :)

this is the RHS advice

How to grow

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained preferably neutral or alkaline soil in full sun or part shade in a sheltered position

Propagation
Propagate by seed in a cold frame in autumn; root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
Flower borders and beds Wall-side Borders City & Courtyard Gardens Coastal Cottage & Informal Garden

if you put the name in search bar and add rhs advice you will get a better set of info.

Many thanks Eileen. I’ve obviously missed the autumn sowing window, but someone at the botanic garden says I could soak the seeds and refrigerate them for 4 weeks. So I’ll try that with a few seeds and save a few more.

I am pleased they got back in touch with you. The fridge treatment will certainly mimic winter and it is a common treatment for many plants.

Yes, they were very prompt, so I’m grateful to Shirley and to you 🙂.