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

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A gorgeous, jewel of a perennial that will add a touch of elegance to any garden. This plant spreads beautifully, and is characterised by its stunning, grey-green foliage that is covered in silvery hairs. From late spring to early summer, this herbaceous plant produces striking thistle-like flowers in white with purple centres, which open from scaly buds. 'Amethyst in Snow' is one of the first bi-colour cultivars and is suitable for almost any border, as well as paths and walls, or even at the edge of woodland areas.
  
  
• Garden care: Stake with brushwood or bamboo canes before the flowers appear. Cut back to the ground after flowering and you may get a second flush of flowers. Lift and divide large clumps every three years in spring.