Aster

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.

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.