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

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to August
• Hardiness: half hardy (will need protection from frost in winter)
  
  Sturdy stems rise up from the mound of strap-shaped foliage in midsummer, topped with a pendent cluster of slender, soft blue flowers. Their striking profile makes them particularly well suited to pots, but they will look great when threaded through a sunny border too. If space permits, plant more than you need, as they also last well when cut for the vase.
  
  
• Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring until flowering. Towards the end of September ease back on the watering and feeding of plants in containers to allow the foliage to toughen up. In cold areas, protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry mulch to protect them from hard frosts, or grow in a pot so they can be overwintered in an unheated greenhouse. Divide plants in spring. Divide plants that have become too big in spring, but remember you will often get more flowers when the roots are constricted.