Agastache

This salvia shows velvety purple and plum coloured blooms from spring to autumn and sometimes even until the first frosts. Grown in ideal conditions in well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade it will keep its foliage in mild winters and can tolerate very low temperatures with some winter protection. Plant in a patio container or near seating areas to enjoy the minty-blackcurrant scent from the foliage.

Eryngiums are very robust plants that grow well in full sun and can be tolerant to drought. The plants bear spikey cone-shaped flowerheads in blue and silver-grey tones. Spent flowerheads give winter interest to your border, so don’t cut them back straight away.

This rare herbaceous plant has thin stems with wavy leaves that are topped by delicate cream and purple flowers shaped like little teacups. The flowers appear in spring and bloom all the way through to summer. This delightful plant is hardy and always grows back even after very cold winter weather.