I grew a few last year from seed. They didn't get big enough to flower, but I kept them going thru the winter. Last year I soaked the seeds, nothing happened, nicked the seeds, soaked them again and repeated until I saw the seeds start to sprout. They sent out a little white sprout, very easy to see.
This year, I tried nearly boiling water (experts say 180'F) over the seeds in a coffee cup. I heard popping right away. Then next morning, they were swollen and some were starting to sprout. I have them in potting mix in a soda bottle like I use for winter sowing right away. I brought them in last night. Still waiting for leaves to poke up, but they have only been in soil for 3 days. If this works, it is much easier than scratching and soaking, imo.
