Mesembryanthemum Harlequin

The plant that turns a hot, dry, sunny spot into a carnival. Mesembryanthemum Harlequin produces masses of daisy-like flowers in a vivid mix of magenta, orange, yellow, white, and pink — each with a glistening, crystalline texture that catches the light like ice, opening wide in full sun and closing at night or in cloud.

The perfect plant for the driest, sunniest spots in the garden where almost nothing else will thrive — gravel gardens, south-facing banks, and container edges.

• Mesembryanthemum criniflorum 'Harlequin' — Half-Hardy Annual (H2)
• Height: 10–15cm | Flowers: June–September
• Sow indoors March–April at 18–20°C; plant out June only
• Full sun; very poor, sharply drained soil — thrives on neglect
• Flowers open in sun only — close in cloud and at night

Grow it in a gravel garden or terracotta pot in the hottest spot you have. It will reward you with a carnival of colour all summer.