This mostly evergreen perennial is one of the hardest-working plants in the garden, flowering from February and going until the autumn. Its grey-green leaves provide a good backdrop for winter bulbs and it is a great companion to other pink or purple flowering perennials but also orange or yellow ones too. Its enthusiasm, however, means it is usually short lived.
H x S: 0.7m x 0.6m
Aspect and soil: Best in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral soil. The RHS indicates that “full sun is essential” but in our experience this has done well in light shade too, although not as floriferous.
Use: from traditional English border to contemporary schemes, this is one versatile plant.
Care: Remove spent flower heads to encourage new growth. Replace every three or four years.
Wildlife: Bee- and insect-friendly
Hazard: —
Origin: Southern Europe
Hardiness: H4
GILG GARDEN DESIGN 