-Ready late March- One just can't improve this one: perfect red, perfect white center and perfect flower shape. Although a show auricula, which usually shouldn't be exposed to rain avoiding the center to be washed out, we find 'Cortina' is holding very well up to the overhead irrigation. Grows in most well drained garden soils. Full sun is fine in higher elevation and/or cooler regions, otherwise needs a place without afternoon heat.