This unusual hardy annual is worth a look on the Systematic Beds.
This species is perfectly placed within the Loasaceae, or rock nettle family, having fine, stinging hairs which cover all parts of the plant. These irritant hairs have earned it the common name electric shock plant. The complex flower comprises white petals which encase the nectar scales and staminodes. It has an inferior ovary, and the seed pod has five chambers which produce the effect of twisting. Here we treat it as a hardy annual, and it will self-seed readily on the Systematic Beds. The species was first introduced to British gardens in 1826 from Argentina.