Perennials Page 8

We have always grown this member of the 'Gallery' series, as it seems to be the only one to throw up such good variations of colour. Plants vary from blue/cream bicolours to deep purples. They all seem to work harmoniously together but favourites are easily bulked up from basal cuttings taken early in the growing period. The compact plants produce spikes of  flowers in early summer, often repeating...

A pleasing colour break in this species with flowerheads of soft, warm, coral pink. We have had this plant in our borders for many years, having originally obtained it with the name 'Pinkie'. It works brilliantly with brooding maroons and clarets - we have it alongside trifolium rubens and sanguiisorba officinalis in our barn garden. HP. Easy in most soils given some sun. Ht.2’ (60cm). 9cm...

Unusual and beautiful variety with sturdy stems of ethereal white flower spikes over a long period in summer. In heavy soil, the plant tends to stay put but in lighter soil, it will spread. In mild winters, the foliage is near-evergreen. Hardy perennial for sun/partial shade.  Ht. 3’ (90cm). 9cm pot £4.50

Elegant stems of jade green bracted flowers above attractive foliage. This Mexican umbellifer is near-evergreen giving year-round presence. The foliage takes on some redder tints in cold weather and old, tatty stems can be removed in spring, once new growth begins. HP best in part shade & well-drained soil. Ht. 4’ (1.2m) Spread 2' (60cm). 9cm pot £7.00

Vigorous hybrid producing a stunning display of glowing purple flowers in summer. HP for moist but well-drained soil in sun/part shade. Ht.3’ (90cm). 9cm pot £5.00

Striking introduction, with a strongly upright habit and large violet-blue flowers in summer. If you are fed up with floppy catmints, then this is for you (although you will still need to keep the cat away!) HP for sun/part shade & most ordinary soils. Ht.30” (75cm) Spread 18” (45cm). 9cm pot £4.50

Sumptuous, semi-double flowers of rich, ruby-red, with the petals enclosing a centre of golden stamens. HP for sun & fertile soil. Ht. to 3’ (90cm) but rarely needs staking. 11cm pot £10.00

Sumptuous double flowers of deep ruby-red, ageing to a more purple hue.  A midseason lactiflora with great fragrance and strong stems. HP for sun & good soil. Ht. 3’ (90cm). 11cm pot £8.50