Galega officinalis / Goat’s Rue

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.

The flat flower heads of Achilleas are great for insects to land on and attract many pollinators, especially hoverflies. This variety is best grown in full sun and well-draining soil and looks great in the middle of a garden border. Division every three to five years will rejuvinate the plant.

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.