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

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average to fast-growing
• Flowering period: June to September
• Hardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection)
  
  A neat, low-growing verbena producing lax clusters of fragrant, bright purple or magenta flowers from June to September. This jewel-like perennial is perfect for a sheltered, sunny, well-drained spot. Associating well with grey and silver-leaved plants, it's wonderful used in generous drifts for infilling a traditional knot garden. It will self-seed freely in the right spot and the flowers are a magnet to butterflies and bees.
  
  
• Garden care: In areas prone to frost apply a deep, dry winter mulch around the crown of the plant.