Id-Code: RA 228
Family: Polygonaceae
Origin: Europe, Southwest Asia and North Africa
Special Features: Exquisite red veining distinguishes this subspecies. Outstanding foliage plant.
Colour: Panicles of insignificant pinkish to white flowers are best removed to encourage new foliage and to discourage reseeding.
Natural Flowering Period: May - July
Winter Hardiness Zones: Z5-8
Growth Habit: Upright habit
Foliage: The chard-like, leafy foliage has prominent blood red veins.
Height with Flowers: 40 cm (16'')
Spacing between Plants: 40 cm (16'')
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils, pH 5.8 - 6.8
Location: Full sun to partial shade
Use: Plant together with Echinops 'Arctic Glow' and Milium effusum 'Aureum'
Specialities: Easy and fast to finish in pots and perfect for impulse sales in garden centers.

Cultural Tips:
Grams per 1000 seeds: 0,833
Seeds per Gram: 1200
Seeding Recommendation: 2g / 1000 plants
Sowing Rate: 2-3 seeds per cell
Plug tray recommended size(s): 72 or 128
Germination: Rapidly germinating, keep seed in constant moisture (not wet) with temperatures of about +20°C (68°F). The seeds must be covered thinly. Keep in cooler conditions after germination occurs.

Scheduling:
Best Sowing Dates: Anytime
Sowing to Germination: 2 - 3 weeks
Germination to Transplant: 4 - 6 weeks
Transplanting to Salable Plant: 4 - 6 weeks
Cutting-Back at Transplanting: Not Necessary

Growing On:
Container Size(s): 1 plug per 8/9 cm (3 1/2''); 1-2 plugs per 11/12 cm (4 1/2'')
Vernalization: There is little advantage to vernalization even though a cold period won't do any harm on this or any perennial seed item.
Forcing: This species is not a suitable candidate for forcing.
Fertilization: Medium (150-200 ppm)