This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast
• Flowering period: June to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  As the name suggests, this is a compact version of the cottage garden favourite. It shares all the sought after qualities of the original, and will produce lashings of flowers over an extended period from early summer. Initially the blooms are mainly white, but as they age, they turn pinker, and their eye develops a deeper reddish colouring. It is extremely undemanding and easy to grow, and its more diminutive stature makes it perfect for patio pots - or quickly filling gaps in a sunny border.
  
  
• Garden care: Cut the stems back to within 30cm (12in) of ground level in spring, after all risk of severe frosts has passed. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure round the base of the plant. In exposed areas shorten branches by up to one half in autumn to minimise the risk of wind damage.