Propagate by seed in autumn, as cuttings do not root very readily. Place the seeds in hot water and leave to soak overnight; this will improve germination. Plant seed into trays filled with a well-draining medium like equal parts finely milled pine bark and coarse river sand. Cover lightly with medium. Water with a fungicide. Place the trays in a lightly shaded position that has good air circulation.

Seedlings germinate readily and need to be transplanted as soon as the first pair of true leaves appears. This is the tricky part, as they are very sensitive to any root disturbances. Prior to transplanting water well with Kelpak; this will help to reduce transplant shock. Very carefully remove seedlings from their tray trying not to break any of the tiny roots. Plant into small plug trays using a sandy, well-draining medium. Water again with Kelpak.

Grow plants on until they are about 100 mm tall, feeding every 2 months with a very dilute seaweed foliar feed. At this stagethey can be planted into the garden. Choose a spot where the soil remains cool or use thick mulch or ground cover planting. Water regularly. They are fast-growing and may require staking or companion planting that will provide support.

In the garden Hypocalyptus sophoroides combines well with soft-textured plants like Syncolostemon obermeyerae, Leonotis leonurus (white) and Tetradenia riparia. Its foliage is not very dense, so specimens can be dotted through the middle and towards the back of beds to provide seasonal interest and colour. Enhance its bright pink flowers by planting against dense green or grey background foliage.

Pests and disease don't seem to pose much of a problem in the garden. Weevils and small beetles are very quick to bore into the seeds while on the plant, so, if you want to collect seeds, harvest them as soon as the pods start turning brown.