>Also, does anyone know to what extent the rather startling variegated >form, 'Silberstein', comes true from seed? A few weeks ago I found >another variegated form, with cream sectorial variegation, rather >than the speckling of 'Silberstein'. It remains to be seen if its >proves stable... Dear Graham; Welcome to the list. 'Silberstein' generally comes true, but some selection is needed for best variegation. Oddly it hasn't self sown here, where typical Poke is a serious weed. I've never had a reaction from handling 'Silberstein'. I've noticed that if seedlings are started in spring, a good percentage of them winter kill the first winter, but if they survive they are fairly permanent. The amazing foliage makes it a very garden worthy plant. Best Jim W. ps RE: Cream sectorial variegation. I hear second handedly that cuttings of variegated Poke root easily, but almost never produce viable buds and survive winters. Serious propagation by seed only, so this new form may be a passing fancy -literally. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +