Asclepias tuberosa

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.

Cistus populifolius is an evergreen frost-hardy shrub that carries white single flowers from spring into summer. Grows best in a hot and dry position on poor soil and is drought-tolerant. Plants are best ordered in spring and planted immediately for good show in the first summer.

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.