This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August to October
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Plant these if you want simmering pokers that will light up the late summer and autumn garden. It may be relatively compact, but it is nonetheless an attention grabber, so it's ideal for planting in distant borders that you want to stand out. A natural for 'hot' themed planting schemes, it will also mix brilliantly with contrasting blues or purples.
  
  
• Garden care: In autumn remove and compost the faded flower spikes and apply a deep, dry mulch around the crown of the plant. Divide and replant overcrowded colonies in spring.