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: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: from midsummer to early autumn
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  An impressive, large speedwell, whose lilac-pink flower spikes form a fine candelabra shape from midsummer to early autumn. Elegant, long-flowering and highly attractive to bees.
  
  
• Garden care: Divide congested plants in spring. Apply a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring, to retain moisture around the plant.