Their large clusters of scented flowers and crinkled, purple-veined leaves make these old-fashioned subshrubs popular with florists. Best grown as summer annuals, they can be perennial in mild climates. Use in borders or pots, or prune side branches into a tree shape on a trellis. Water container plants freely when in full growth, less at other times. Fertilize during growing season. Prune tips in spring to promote bushy growth. Can be started from cuttings.
Deep purple flowers are sweet-smelling. A dwarf form is 8 inches tall and wide. All parts are poisonous. Watch out for leaf miner.