Most of these species are easily cultivated and provide a long lasting display of flowers. Plants range from dwarf mat forming species to those that form clumps or trail to tall-growing upright species. The latter seldom require staking which is a useful trait for our sometimes stormy and windy summer days. The low growing species make ideal plants for a rock garden or the front of a bed or border. Trailing species are again useful for both rock gardens and raised beds.
Leaves are entire or toothed and borne alternately.
Flowers are borne in panicles, racemes or clustered heads. Their shape varies from tubular to bell or star-shaped. They may also be more open and be cup or saucer-shaped. Cultivation Conditions under which each species grows best is dependent upon the habitat from which they originate. In general, a fertile to moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, well drained soil will provide good growing conditions.