[Overview]
An annual, biennial or perennial.
Leaves are simple and opposite.
The flowers are five-petaled, white to pink, and in many the petals are 2-lobed.
The calyx has many veins.
The fruit is a capsule.
[Cultivation]
Propagate from seed, by cuttings, or by division.
It prefers sunny, well-drained, slightly dry soil that is not fertile.
It dislikes heat and humidity.
It is best kept on the dry side to avoid excess moisture; for potted plants, water thoroughly after the soil dries, and for plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
Fertilizer is not particularly necessary for plants in the ground; for potted plants, apply a small amount of slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn.
There are no particular pests or diseases.
