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Perennials

Grasses

Herbs - Edible & Aromatic

Achillea millefolium ‘Cerise Queen’ (lace plant)*    2 litre - £4

The feathery foliage of this useful border perennial is smothered in flat heads of deep pink flowers in July to August, the flowers fading to a paler pink as they age.  It is very attractive to bees and butterflies as well as being drought tolerant and easy to grow. 60 x 50 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Ageratina altissima ‘Chocolate’ (purple mist flower) *       2 litre - £4

This neat perennial is grown for its striking purple-brown foliage that looks good from spring to autumn.  It bears small heads of white flowers in August.  120 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.  Formerly Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’.

Ajuga reptans ‘Atropurpurea’ (purple bugle) *    1 litre - £2.50

This foliage perennial is grown for its dark bronzy-purple leaves but it also has spikes of blue flowers in May and June. It makes excellent weed suppressing groundcover and looks particularly good underneath spring-flowering shrubs.  15 x 30 cm. Sun to shade, any soil that is not too dry.

Alchemilla mollis (lady’s mantle)*      1 litre - £2.50

This excellent easy-to-grow perennial produces masses of frothy lemon flowers in June to July above scallop-edged foliage that catches the raindrops and always looks wonderful after a shower.  It is ideal for edging borders and paths and also grows well in difficult spots.  30 x 30 cm. Sun and any well-drained soil.

Anaphalis triplinervis (snow-in-summer)*     2 litre - £4

This useful and delicate perennial is grown for its silvery foliage as well as its clusters of papery white flowers that are borne in July to September.  It is one of the few silver foliage plants that tolerate shade. It is very easy to grow and looks good over a long season.  30 x 30 cm. Sun to shade, any well-drained soil.

Anomatheca laxa (false freesia) *        1 litre -  £2.50

Clusters of small red flowers are borne in June and July above a neat little clump of iris-like foliage.  The flowers are followed by clusters of seedpods bursting with shiny red seeds.  Herbaceous, will self-seed to a small extent.  20 x 20 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.  Has proved reliably hardy with us.

Anthemis punctata cupaniana (silver chamomile)*       2 litre - £4

This easy evergreen perennial is smothered in white daisy-like flowers from April to June above feathery silver foliage.  Dead head after flowering for further blooms in late summer.  Makes excellent groundcover and will trail down slopes and over walls.  60 x 60 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Anthemis tinctoria ‘EC Buxton’ (golden chamomile)*   2 litre - £4

Smothered in golden-yellow daisy-like flowers in June to August, this useful carpeting perennial also has attractive dark green feathery foliage.  Dead head promptly to extend the flowering season and cut back hard in autumn to keep neat and bushy.  60 x 60 cm.  Sun, any well-drained soil.

Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’ (black cow parsley)   1 litre - £2.50

Although it bears pink-tinged flowers in May and June it is the brooding black feathery foliage that is the real attraction of this selected form of our native wild flower.  The colour is most intense in spring but the foliage remains looking good throughout the summer.  60 x 60 cm. Sun, any soil.

Aquilegia chrysantha ‘Yellow Queen’ (golden columbine)    2 litre - £3.50

This unusual American form of the popular cottage garden perennial has delicate yellow slightly scented flowers with long spurs that are borne in May to June.  Unlike the common granny’s bonnet it is not a self-seeder, but it is just as easy to grow and is reliably perennial.  80 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Aquilegia fragrans (scented columbine)    2 litre - £3.50

This unusual form of the popular cottage garden perennial comes from Kashmir has apple-scented pale lilac and white flowers in May to June above pale green leaves.  Unlike the common granny’s bonnet it is not a self-seeder, but it is just as easy to grow and is reliably perennial.  80 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Aquilegia rockii (Himalayan columbine)    1 litre - £2.50

This delightful little columbine is ideal for the rock garden with its delicate red-purple flowers that are borne in May to July above fresh green leaves.  The foliage continues to look good through the summer. 45 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.  Unlike Aquilegia vulgaris this does not self-seed profusely.

Aquilegia vulgaris stellata (star columbine)    2 litre - £3.50

This unusual form of the common granny’s bonnet has white flowers in May and early June.  The blooms are without the usual spurred petals and look more like small clematis.  Unlike the common form, it is not a self-seeder.  60 x 50 cm. Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Aquilegia vulgaris stellata ‘Ruby Port’ (granny’s bonnets)    2 litre - £3.50

This unusual form of the common cottage garden perennial has double deep red flowers in May to June. The blooms are without the usual spurred petals and look more like small water lilies.  It is reliably perennial and usually comes true from seed.  80 x 50 cm. Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guiness’ (granny’s bonnets)    2 litre - £3.50

This unusual form of the common cottage garden perennial has attractively marked deep purple and white flowers in May to June above leaves tinged with purple.  It is reliably perennial and usually comes true from seed.  80 x 50 cm. Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Armeria ‘Joystick Series’ (hybrid thrift)*    1 litre - £2.50

This hybrid between our native sea thrift and plantain thrift has large heads of pale pink flowers from May to July then intermittently throughout the year.  It is very tolerant of salty winds and so is ideal for coastal gardens.  30 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil, preferably sandy.

Armeria maritima ‘Splendens’ (sea thrift)*    1 litre - £2.50

This is an improved form of our native sea thrift that has larger heads of deeper cerise-pink flowers that are borne in May to July above a dense cushion of fine dark green leaves.  It is very tolerant of salty winds and so is ideal for coastal gardens.  20 x 20 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil, preferably sandy.

Armeria pseudarmeria (plantain thrift)*    1 litre - £2.50

Closely related to our native sea thrift, this species has larger round heads of white flowers that are held on taller stems above a clump of thicker and longer leaves.  It blooms throughout the summer and well into autumn if regularly deadheaded.  30 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil, preferably sandy.

Artemisia stelleriana ‘Boughton Silver’  (beach wormwood)*    1 litre - £2.50

This lovely foliage perennial is ideal for edging and creates a dense carpet of silver leaves in summer, although it does lose its leaves in the colder months of winter.  It bears small heads of white flowers in late summer.  30 x 100 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Aster ‘Coombe Fishacre’ *         2 litre - £4

This easy-to-grow aster is smothered in small pale pink flowers in August to October, the centres fading from yellow to deep pink as they age.  It grows well among other border plants and does not need staking, quickly forming a substantial clump.  90 x 60 cm.    Sunny spot and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster divaricatus (white wood aster) *   2 litre - £4

This neat little aster forms a mat of shiny green leaves that are topped by masses of small white flowers on dark stems in August to October.  It makes excellent ground cover and will happily tolerate light shade around the base of shrubs.  Mildew resistant and easy to grow.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster x frikartii ‘Monch’ (Frikart’s aster)*      2 litre - £4

One of the best asters, coming into flower quite early in July and carrying on until October.  It bears large lilac-purple flowers that are very popular with bees and butterflies and grows well among other perennials that give it support and make staking unnecessary.  100 x 50 cm.  Sunny spot and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster ‘Hortus’ *    2 litre - £4

We found this hybrid between ‘Little Carlow’ and A. novi-belgii ‘Algar’s Pride’ in our garden and were impressed by its mildew resistance and compact habit.  The single flowers are as large as a michelmas daisy but borne in clusters like the wood aster.  60 x 60 cm.  Sunny spot and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster lateriflorus ‘Buck’s Fizz’ (calico aster)*    2 litre - £4

This easy to grow aster has sprays of massed tiny pale pink flowers that look a little like gypsophila and are borne in August to November.  It is excellent in the border among other perennials that will give it some support.  100 x 50 cm.  Sun and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster lateriflorus ‘Prince’ (calico aster)*    2 litre - £4

This neat little aster has purple and white flowers in August to November above foliage and stems that are flushed with purple and look good long before the flowers open.  It is excellent growing in the border among other perennials and does not need staking.  60 x 40 cm. Sun and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster  ‘Little Carlow’ *       2 litre - £4

This impressive specimen aster is absolutely smothered in masses of lavender flowers in September and October.  It makes an excellent border plant with a neat, upright habit and excellent resistance to powdery mildew.  Not surprisingly, it is one of our most popular asters. 120 x 120 cm. Sun and any soil that is not too dry.

Aster novi-belgii ‘Algars Pride’ (michelmas daisy)*    2 litre - £4

An excellent michelmas daisy with large, single lavender flowers from August to October.  It is easy to grow with good mildew resistance, but it may need staking in exposed gardens. The flowers are very popular with butterflies.  150 x 50 cm. Sun and any soil not too dry.

Astrantia major (masterwort)*    2 litre - £3

This easy-to-grow perennial bears masses of starry white flowers with pale pink centres from June to September above attractive palmate fresh green leaves.  Regular dead heading can prolong the flowering season well into autumn.  60 x 60 cm.  Partial shade and a reasonably moist but not too heavy soil.

Campanula persicifolia (bell flower)*    2 litre - £4

Spikes of delicate pale blue pendent bells appear in June and July above clumps of small, neat leaves.  If dead headed it will bloom again in late summer and early autumn.  It is very easy to grow and makes excellent ground cover, the leaves forming a spreading mat.  90 x 30 cm.  Sun to shade and any but waterlogged soil.

Campanula persicifolia alba (bell flower)*    2 litre - £4

Spikes of delicate white pendent bells appear in June and July above clumps of small, neat leaves.  If deadheaded it will bloom again in late summer and early autumn.  It is very easy to grow and makes excellent ground cover, the leaves forming a spreading mat.  90 x 30 cm.  Sun to shade and any but waterlogged soil.

Campanula takesimana ‘Elizabeth’ (Korean bell flower) *    2 litre - £4

Spikes of delicate pink bells appear in July and August above heart-shaped fresh green leaves.  If deadheaded promptly it will produce a second flush of flowers in autumn.  It is very easy to grow and makes good groundcover, slowly spreading to form a substantial clump.  80 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any but waterlogged soil.

Campanula zangezura (ring flower)    2 litre - £4

This lovely little alpine has attractively scalloped leaves and is smothered in tiny nodding blue flowers from June to August.  It is ideal for the rock garden or for growing in walls or on banks, as well as the front of the border.  25 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Carpobrotus edulis (Hottentot fig)*    3 litre - £5

As well as fleshy, succulent leaves, this South African plant bears large pink daisy-like flowers in summer that open at midday.  It is hardy in most winters in the southwest if grown on well-drained soil and is it does particularly well in seaside gardens.  15 x 100 cm.  Needs a warm sunny spot and a light, well-drained soil.

Cenolophium denudatum (Baltic parsley) *    3 litre - £5

Large heads of elegant cow parsley-like white flowers are held above lacy dark green feathery foliage in July to October.  The flowers are good for cutting and are also attractive to insects.  The deeply cut foliage looks good all year round.  100 x 100 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Centranthus ruber  ‘Albus’ (white valerian)*    2 litre - £3.50

Old cottage garden favourite that is smothered in white flowers in May to August above fleshy green-grey foliage.  Regular dead heading will prolong flowering and helps to stop self-seeding if not required.  It is easy to grow and ideal for coastal gardens as it withstands salty winds well.  60 x 60 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Centranthus ruber  coccineus (red valerian)*    2 litre - £3.50

Old cottage garden favourite that is smothered in cerise flowers in May to August above fleshy green-grey foliage.  Regular dead heading will prolong flowering and helps to stop self-seeding if not required.  It is easy to grow and ideal for coastal gardens as it withstands salty winds well.  60 x 60 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Cephalaria gigantea (giant scabious)    3 litre - £5

A stately perennial with frilled lemon flowers on long stems in June to July that turn into pin-cushion-like seed heads that last for several months.  It has bold, serrated dark green leaves and despite its height does not usually need staking.  200 x 120 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a fertile well-drained soil.

Chiastophyllum oppositifolium  (golden lambs tail)     1 litre - £2.50

This neat little alpine has dangling sprays of yellow-green catkin-like flowers in June and July above a neat clump of evergreen leaves.  It is ideal for growing in crevices in walls and cracks in paving.  20 x 20 cm.  Full or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Chrysanthemum ‘Mary Stoker’    3 litre - £5

Ideal for autumn colour that lasts into winter, this hardy rubellum group chrysanthemum is covered in golden daisy-like flowers from August onwards. It is an outdoor variety which is easy to grow and will over-winter on a well-drained soil.  120 x 60 cm.  Sun and a well-drained fertile soil.

Cichorium intybus (chicory) *   3 litre - £5

Ideal for the back of the border as well as more informal parts of the garden, this tall slender plant has stems clothed in starry, sky blue flowers from July to October.  It overwinters as an impressive rosette of fresh green leaves.  120 x 40 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Convolvulus sabatius (Moroccan glory vine)     1 litre - £2.50

This trailing perennial has saucer-shaped lilac flowers from May to September.  It looks good trailing over a wall or a bank or it can be grown at the front of the border. It is hardier than its delicate appearance suggests but it does need a well-drained soil and sunny, sheltered spot.  20 x 30 cm.

Dahlia  ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ *      2 litre - £4

One of the most famous members of the dahlia family, this lovely plant has been grown for decades.  It has bright red flowers from August onwards that make a wonderful contrast with its deep purple, almost black, leaves.  We are able to over winter this variety in-situ on our well-drained soil.  120 x 60 cm.  Best in sun on a soil that is moist but well drained.

Daucus carota  (sea carrot) *   2 litre - £3.50

This wild flower takes on a completely different character in the border where it forms a neat mound of feathery foliage that is smothered in flat heads of white flowers throughout the summer if regularly deadheaded.  60 x 60 cm. Sun and any well-drained soil, particularly sandy and poor soil.  Ideal for coastal gardens.

Dianthus barbatus Nigrescens Group (Sweet William)*         2 litre - £4

This unusual Sweet William is one for the connoisseur with very dark red, almost black flowers in May to June above deep purple leaves. The flowers are beautifully scented.  It is reliably perennial and forms a dense mat of foliage.  50 x 30 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Dianthus deltoides ‘Leuchtfunk’ (maiden pink)*     1 litre - £2.50

This perennial dianthus is absolutely smothered in deep red-pink flowers from June to August above a neat mat of small purple-flushed leaves. It makes excellent ground cover and is ideal for the front of the border.  20 x 20 cm.  Sun or partial shade, a well-drained soil, preferably slightly alkaline.

Dicentra formosa (Pacific bleeding heart)*     2 litre - £4

Nodding dusky pink flowers are borne in May to June above blue-green ferny foliage that looks good throughout the season.  45 x 30 cm. Partial shade and a moist soil that is rich in organic matter.  All parts are poisonous.

Dierama pulcherrimum (angel’s fishing rod)*     3 litre - £5

This beautiful bulb bears arching stems of cerise bell-like flowers that appear from upright clumps of slender leaves in mid-summer.  The leaves are evergreen and still look good through the winter.  It makes an excellent focal point and looks particularly good when grown in gravel.  150 x 30 cm.  Sun and shelter, any moist soil.

Digitalis lutea  (lemon foxglove)     2 litre - £4

This unusual perennial foxglove has small pale yellow flowers in June to July above neat green leaves.  It does well among other border perennials and is not tall enough to needs staking.  It is reliably perennial and is easy to grow.  90 x 30 cm.  Sun or partial shade on a moist but well-drained soil.

Digitalis x mertonensis (strawberry foxglove)     2 litre - £4

This hybrid perennial foxglove bears large crushed strawberry pink flowers in June to September.  It forms a neat plant with large hairy leaves and mixes well in the border with other perennials.  75 x 30 cm.  Sun or partial shade on a moist but well-drained soil.

Digitalis purpurea albiflora (white foxglove) *     2 litre - £3

Although only a biennial, this white-flowered common foxglove will seed and although it does not always come true from seed, it is not difficult to rogue out the purple-flowered seedlings.  150 x 60 cm. Sun or partial shade on a moist but well-drained soil.

Erigeron glaucus (fleabane)*    1 litre - £2.50

This easy-to-grow carpeting perennial is smothered in pale lilac-pink daisy-like flowers from June to October. It is ideal for groundcover and for growing trailing down banks or in gaps in walls.  It is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, as well as being ideal for exposed coastal gardens.  25 x 25 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Erigeron karvinskianus (Mexican daisy)*     1 litre - £2.50

This neat little daisy is smothered in flowers from May to October, the pink blooms fading to white as they age to create an attractive two-tone effect.  It is drought-tolerant and ideal for growing in cracks in paving or on walls.  It will self-seed.  25 x 25 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Erodium manescavii (showy heron’s bill)*    2 litre - £4

This free-flowering plant looks a little like its close relative the geranium.  Cerise flowers are borne from June to August and are followed by the unusually shaped seeds from which it gains its common name.  50 x 50 cm.  Sun and shelter, well-drained soil.

Erodium trifolium (heron’s bill)*     2 litre - £4

Despite its delicate appearance, this plant is quite hardy in a sheltered spot.  Sprays of delicate geranium-like pink and white flowers are held aloft in May to August if regularly deadheaded above rounded leaves. It will self-seed but is not invasive.  45 x 30 cm.  Sun and shelter, well-drained soil.  Formerly sold as Erodium pelargoniiflorum.

Erodium reichardii ‘Album’  (alpine heron’s bill)*    1 litre - £2.50

This neat little ground-hugging perennial is ideal for the rock garden, or for small pots, with dark green scallop-shaped leaves and masses of white flowers from May to September.  Easy to grow and the foliage looks good year round.  10 x 30 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Erodium x variabile ‘Bishop’s Form’ (heron’s bill)*     1 litre - £2.50

This neat little ground-hugging perennial is ideal for the rock garden or edging a border, with dark green scallop-shaped leaves and masses of dark pink flowers from May to August.  10 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Eryngium agavifolium (agave-leaved eryngo)*     3 litre - £5

This dramatic and exotic-looking plant forms bold clumps of spiky green leaves that look like an agave, topped by thistle-like pale green flowers in June to August.  The leaves are spiky, so avoid spots near the edge of paths or patios.  150 x 60 cm.  Needs sun, ideal for poor, dry soil.

Eryngium bourgatii (silver-blue eryngo)*     2 litre - £4

This attractive border plant looks good from spring to autumn with silver-blue flowers surrounded by spiky bracts in June to July above beautifully marbled green and silver leaves.  60 x 30 cm.  Needs sun, ideal for poor, dry soil.

Eryngium giganteum (silver ghost)*      2 litre - £3

Spiky heads of metallic looking silvery flowers are borne in July and August above glossy grey-green leaves.  Although it dies after flowering it will self-seed.  60 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil, even poor soil.  Also known as Miss Wilmott’s ghost.

Eryngium planum (flat eryngo)*    2 litre - £4

Large sprays of small purple-blue flowers with a metallic sheen are borne in July to August above a neat clump of rounded green leaves. The flower spray may need staking in exposed positions.  90 x 50 cm.  Needs sun, ideal for poor, dry soil.

Eryngium variifolium (variegated eryngo)*   2 litre - £4

This eryngium takes its name from its dark green leaves that are attractively veined in white, but it also produces a dense spray of prickly silver-blue flowers in July to August.  The crown of foliage remains looking good all winter and the finished flower heads look good into autumn.  60 x 30 cm.  Needs sun and is ideal for poor, dry soil.

Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ (purple wood spurge) *    1 litre - £2.50

The purple-flushed leaves of this evergreen euphorbia make this an attractive groundcover, topped with the bonus of acid-green flowers on purple stems in April to June.  It needs some sun for the best leaf colour and flowering.  30 x 30 cm.  Sun or partial shade.  Any but heavy soil.

Euphorbia amygdaloides robbiae (wood spurge) *      1 litre - £2.50

One of the best plants for difficult dry shade, this tough euphorbia has leathery dark green leaves which are topped in April to May by spires of acid-green flowers.  Although happy in full shade, it flowers better with some sun.  30 x 30 cm.  Full to partial shade.  Any but heavy soil.

Euphorbia characias wulfenii  (Mediterranean spurge)*      3 litre - £5

This architectural evergreen makes an excellent specimen and looks good all year round, its grey-green foliage topped by heads of acid yellow-green bracts in March to May.  90 x 60 cm.  Sun and any except heavy soil.

Euphorbia cornigera (horned spurge)      3 litre - £5

This spurge looks particularly unusual in spring when its new leaves are edged with pink and cream.  The leaves turn to green by summer and its bears its heads of yellow-green bracts in July and August.  Although herbaceous, its forms a significant clump each season.  110 x 60 cm.  Sun, any except heavy soil.

Euphorbia griffithii ‘Fireglow’ (orange spurge)*   3 litre - £5

The new stems of this herbaceous euphorbia emerge red and are topped by bright orange bracts in May to mid-summer.  The leaves are attractively veined in white.  Although it spreads by underground stems, it is not difficult to control.  110 x 60 cm.  Partial shade and any except heavy soil.

Euphorbia x martini   (red martin spurge) *       3 litre - £5

This neat little hybrid euphorbia is a cross between E. characias and E. amygdaloides and has the good points of both; purple young leaves and shoots which open to yellow-green bracts in March to May.  It makes an excellent small specimen and looks good in a container.  80 x 70 cm.  Sun, any except heavy soil.

Euphorbia mellifera (honey spurge)*       3 litre - £5

This wonderful architectural evergreen takes its name from its golden honey-scented flowers that are borne in profusion in May to July but it also has attractive leaves with golden veins. 120 x 120 cm.  Needs a sunny and sheltered spot and a well-drained soil.  Ideal growing against a warm wall.

Euphorbia palustris ‘Zauberflote’ (marsh spurge) *    3 litre - £5

Smothered in lime-yellow flowers in May to July, this euphorbia flowers slightly later than most of the family.  It is easy to grow and does particularly well on damp soil. 90 x 120 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil that is not too dry.

Euphorbia sikkimensis (Himalaya spurge)      3 litre - £5

This bold spurge looks particularly good in spring when its new shoots and leaves emerge bright cerise-pink.  The leaves turn to green by summer and its bears its large heads of yellow-green bracts in July and August.  Although herbaceous, its forms a substantial clump each season.  90 x 90 cm.  Sun, any except heavy soil.

Euryops pectinatus (golden daisy bush)*     3 litre - £5

Ideal in coastal gardens, this neat perennial forms a rounded dome of feathery grey-green foliage that is smothered in flowers in May to July with further flushes throughout the year, often blooming in the depths of winter.  Good in a large container.  Dead head regularly to prolong flowering.  120 x 120 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Album’ (Balkan cranesbill)*     1 litre - £2.50

As well as pretty pale pink flowers with a deeper pink calyx borne in May to July, this geranium makes good groundcover and spreads by creeping underground stems.  Its aromatic foliage (the source of geranium oil) takes on red-bronze tints in autumn. 30 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’ (Balkan cranesbill)*     1 litre - £2.50

As well as pretty candy flowers with a deeper pink calyx borne in May to July, this geranium makes excellent groundcover as it spreads by underground stems.  Its aromatic foliage (the source of geranium oil) takes on red-bronze tints in autumn. 30 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Geranium nodosum (knotted cranesbill)*    1 litre - £2.50

Invaluable in shade, particularly dry shade, this lovely geranium has glossy green foliage and small pale lilac flowers from June right through summer and autumn.  It makes excellent groundcover but will not spread too far or too fast.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun to full shade, any soil even dry shade under trees.

Geranium x oxonianum ‘Claridge Druce’ (Oxford cranesbill)*    1 litre - £2.50

This excellent ground cover perennial bears purple-pink flowers from May to September above a neat mound of green leaves.  Its lax habit makes it ideal for growing through other plants and it is vigorous and easy to grow.  60 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil.

Geranium x oxonianum ‘Rosenlicht’  (Oxford cranesbill)*    1 litre - £2.50

As well as making excellent ground cover, we have found that this is one of the most floriferous of the Oxford type and is smothered in bright pink flowers from May until October.  It is easy to grow and ideal for the front of the border with its neat habit.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil.

Geranium x oxonianum ‘Wargrave Pink’  (Oxford cranesbill)*       1 litre - £2.50

One of the best ground cover perennials, this neat geranium is smothered in pink flowers from May to September.  It is easy to grow and ideal for the front of the border with its neat habit.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil.

Geranium x oxonianum ‘Winscombe’  (Oxford cranesbill)*       1 litre - £2.50

This neat ground cover perennial is smothered in pink flowers from May to September, the blooms opening white but then deepening to silver-pink as they age to create a two-tone effect. It is easy to grow and ideal for the front of the border with its neat habit.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil.

Geranium palmatum (Canary Island cranesbill)*      3 litre - £5

This stunning geranium bears sprays of pink flowers with cerise centres from June onwards.  It has attractive palmate leaves and forms a substantial clump.  It is hardy in a sheltered spot on well-drained soil. 100 x 100 cm.  Full sun and a sheltered position, well-drained soil.

Geranium pratense (meadow cranesbill)*    3 litre - £5

This easy-to-grow geranium has masses of delicate blue flowers from early June onwards, flowering until September if regularly deadheaded.  It is herbaceous and has attractive, very divided leaves. 75 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Geranium psilostemon (Armenian cranesbill) *      3 litre - £5

This herbaceous geranium is grown for its stunning cerise flowers that are borne in flowers in June to August and held well above its large, palmate leaves.  120 x 120 cm.  It is excellent growing with other border perennials that will give it support.  Sun or partial shade and any well-drained soil.

Geranium pyrenaicum ‘Bill Wallis’ (mountain cranesbill)*    1 litre - £3

This useful and easy-to-grow cranesbill bears masses of small dark blue flowers all summer long without needing to be deadheaded.  Its sprawling habit makes ideal ground cover in sun or shade.  60 x 30 cm. Sun to full shade and well-drained soil.

Geranium x riversleaianum ‘Russell Prichard’ *     1 litre - £3

One of the best geraniums for the front of the border, the neat mound of foliage is smothered in cerise flowers from May to October.  It makes excellent groundcover around other taller perennials.  30 x 90 cm.  Sun or partial shade and any well-drained soil.

Geranium  ‘Sue Crug’ (trailing cranesbill)   1 litre - £3

This hybrid geranium has lilac flowers with cerise veins and a dark purple centre from July to September.  Its trailing habit makes it ideal for threading through other perennials at the front of the border. 30 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade, well-drained soil.

Geranium tuberosum (tuberous cranesbill)    1 litre - £3

Bearing its delicate and lovely flowers from April to May, this unusual geranium then goes dormant for the summer, the leaves reappearing in autumn.  The blooms are strongly veined and fade from blue to purple.  20 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well drained soil.

Geranium wallichianum (prostrate cranesbill)    3 litre - £5

This easy-to-grow geranium has sprawling stems covered in deep blue flowers from July to October. The foliage takes on attractive russet tints in autumn.  Its low-growing habit makes it useful for ground cover between shrubs or tall perennials.  30 x 90 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any well-drained soil.

Geum ‘Mrs J Bradshaw’ (scarlet avens)*         2 litre - £4

This easy-to-grow perennial has scarlet strawberry-like flowers on tall stems from June to September if regularly deadheaded. Its open habit makes it ideal for growing among other perennials where it provides a bright splash of colour.  60 x 45 cm. Sun or partial shade, any soil which is not too wet or dry.

Helianthus maximiliani (perennial sunflower)   3 litre - £5

This neat and easy-to-grow perennial sunflower is smothered in masses of small golden flowers in August to October.  It is completely herbaceous and ideal for growing at the back of the border.  150 x 90 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.  Despite their height they don’t need staking.

Hypericum olympicum (Greek St John’s wort) *       1 litre - £3

This neat little evergreen forms a small dome of grey-green leaves that is smothered in golden flowers with conspicuous stamens in June to August.  It is ideal for a rockery or the front of the border.  30 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Iberis gibraltarica ‘Betty Swainson’ (perennial candytuft) *     2 litre - £4

This stunning plant has attracted a lot of attention in our garden.  It forms a neat dome that is absolutely smothered in pure white flowers in March to May and is equally at home in rock garden or edging the border.  30 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Inula orientalis (Caucasian elecampane)    2 litre - £4

These eye-catching shaggy daisy-like flowers provide interest over many weeks in July and August as tufty buds open to golden blooms surrounded by a green ruff that remains after the petals have fallen.  75 x 50 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Iris chrysographes (black iris)    3 litre - £5

Really eye-catching flowers that are such a deep purple they are almost black and are borne in May to June.  It makes a neat plant that does not take up too much space when not in flower.  50 x 30 cm.  Sun and a moist but well-drained soil.

Iris sibirica ‘Silver Edge’ (Siberian iris)*        3 litre - £5

Siberian irises are easy to grow and make good border plants.  Purple flowers with a white edge are borne in May and June, these turning into rich chocolate brown seedpods later in the summer.  Their foliage looks neat from spring to autumn when it too turns a rich brown.  90 x 30 cm. Sun and any soil that is not too dry.

Knautia macedonica (Balkan scabious)    2 litre - £4

This unusual scabious bears masses of deep cerise flowers from July to September that are held aloft on delicate stems, making it an ideal see through plant for the border.  75 x 60 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Libertia grandiflora (New Zealand iris)*       3 litre - £5

Sprays of white flowers are borne in early summer out of clumps of neat evergreen iris-like leaves that look good year round.  The flowers are followed by attractive seedpods in late summer.  80 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Limonium platyphyllum (sea lavender) *   2 litre - £4

Clouds of tiny lilac flowers emerge in July and August but they dry naturally on the plant and last well through the winter.  The fleshy leaves form a neat rosette.  Ideal for coastal gardens.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun, any light well-drained soil, particularly sandy and poor soils.

Lychnis coronaria (rose campion)*       2 litre - £3.50

This attractive cottage garden plant has stunning silver foliage that contrasts beautifully with its bold cerise flowers that are borne in June to July.   Although a short-lived perennial, it will self-seed and comes true from seed.  60 x 45 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Lychnis coronaria ‘Alba’ (white rose campion)*        2 litre - £3.50

This attractive cottage garden plant has stunning silver foliage that beautifully compliments it pure white flowers that are borne in June to July.   Although a short-lived perennial, it will self-seed and comes true from seed.  60 x 45 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Lychnis flos-cuculi (ragged robin) *   1 litre - £2.50

Delicate clusters of divided pink petals are borne in May and June above short clumps of grey-green leaves.  The flowers are attractive to many smaller butterflies.  Ideal for more informal areas of the garden, especially banks.  60 x 45 cm.  Sun, any soil not too dry.

Lychnis viscaria (sticky catchfly)*     1 litre - £2.50

This neat little perennial bears clusters of cerise flowers from May to July above a neat clump of dark green leaves.  It is ideal for the rock garden or for small containers but also suitable for growing at the front of the border.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Lysimachia ciliata ‘Firecracker’ (loosestrife) *      1 litre - £3

The new leaves of this herbaceous perennial emerge bronzy chocolate brown in spring and the colour lasts well through the summer.  Small yellow flowers follow in July to August.  90 x 50 cm.  Sun and a moist but well-drained soil.

Lysimachia punctata ‘Alexander’ (circle flower)    1 litre - £3

The new leaves of this herbaceous perennial emerge in spring in a stunning mix of cream, pink and green and the colour lasts well into the summer.  Golden flowers follow in July to August.  Unlike its green-leaved cousin, this form is not at all invasive.  60 x 60 cm.  Sun and a moist but well-drained soil.

Meconopsis cambrica (Welsh poppy)   1 litre - £2.50

Ideal for the damp shady spot in the garden, this perennial poppy also tolerates drier and sunnier spots.  Golden yellow (or occasionally orange) flowers are held above ferny green foliage from May to July.  Ideal for less formal areas of the garden as it tends to self-seed freely.  30 x 30 cm.  Shade to sun, any but very dry or chalky soil.

Melanoselinum decipiens (Madeiran parsley)    3 litre - £5

A stunning umbelifer that is smothered in large heads of pinky-white flowers from May to July.  It has large, parsley-like leaves and thick stems like an elephant’s leg.  180 x 90 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.  It has proved hardy in our garden but may need shelter in colder areas.

Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’ (garden catmint)*   2 litre - £4

This attractive cottage garden perennial bears purple-blue flowers from June through much of the summer if cut back after the first flush. These compliment the aromatic grey-green foliage.  45 x  45 cm.  Sun, any well-drained soil.

Oenothera fruticosa glauca (yellow river sun drops)*      2 litre - £4

This perennial evening primrose has masses of scented golden flowers and red buds in July and August. It is a neat plant that does not need staking.  60 x 40 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Oenothera macrocarpa (prairie evening primrose)*         1 litre - £3

This neat ground-hugging evening primrose has huge lemon-yellow flowers from June to September that are held above a neat mat of leaves.  20 x 40 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Oenothera speciosa ‘Siskiyou’ (silky evening primrose)*    1 litre - £3

This excellent front-of-the border plant forms a spreading mat that is smothered in pale pink flowers from June to September.  40 x 100 cm.  Sun and shelter, any well-drained soil.

Oenothera stricta (fragrant evening primrose)*     2 litre - £3.50

Lovely tissue-paper blooms fade from apricot through gold to lemon in a single day, with new flowers every day from June to August.  Although short-lived, it will self-seed.  80 x 30 cm.  Sun and shelter, any well-drained soil.

Origanum laevigatum ‘Herrenhausen’ (ornamental marjoram)*       1 litre - £3

Although it has aromatic foliage, this ornamental marjoram is grown for its masses of cerise flowers that are borne in July to September.  This plant is one of the best butterfly attractors and is very popular with bees as well.  30 x 20 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Osteospermum ‘Lady Leitrim’  (Swan River daisy)*     1 litre - £2.50

This is one of the few hardy Swan river daisies and is ideal for hot, sunny spots.  It is exceptionally drought tolerant and very easy to grow.  Pinky-mauve flowers with a darker reverse to the petals are borne in profusion from May to October. 45 x 45 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Papaver rupifragum  (Spanish poppy) *    2 litre - £4

This attractive perennial poppy bears orange semi-double flowers on long stems from May to August if regularly deadheaded.  It has a neat clump of hairy grey-green leaves and does well in the border, as it is tougher than its delicate appearance would suggest.  60 x 30 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘Alice Hindley’ *      2 litre - £4

Penstemon flower from June to the first frosts; this one has delicate pale lilac flowers with a white throat.    It is one of the hardiest varieties, but it does need a good soil to flower well.  100 x 50 cm.  Sun and a fertile, well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘Andenken an Friedrich Hahn’ *        2 litre - £4

Penstemon flower from June to the first frosts and this is one of the hardiest with deep cerise tubular flowers and delicate leaves.  It has quite a lax habit and benefits from the support of other border perennials.  80 x 60 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘Burgundy’ *    2 litre - £4

Penstemon flower from June to the first frosts and this one bears masses of violet-purple tubular flowers.  Although a medium-height variety, it has strong stems and does not need staking.  90 x 45 cm. Sun and any well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘Hidcote Pink’ *       2 litre - £4

This compact penstemon bears masses of pale pink flowers from June to the first frosts, each marked with darker pink inside the tube.  It is a particularly free-flowering variety.  60 x 30 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘King George V’ *    2 litre - £4

All penstemon have a long flowering period, but this one will remain in bloom until Christmas and beyond in a mild winter.  From July onwards it is always smothered in red flowers with white at the throat.  80 x 60 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘Purple Bedder’ *     2 litre - £4

Penstemon flower from June to the first frosts and this one bears large deep claret-purple tubular flowers.  It is a tall growing variety and benefits from trimming back each year in mid-spring but it has strong stems and does not need staking.  120 x 50 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ *       2 litre - £4

Penstemon flower from June to the first frosts and this one bears large pure white tubular flowers that open from creamy buds.  It is a neat and fairly short variety.  70 x 50 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Phlox maculata ‘Alpha’ (meadow flame) *       2 litre - £4

This cottage garden perennial has large heads of strongly scented cerise flowers from July to September, particularly if regularly deadheaded.  Butterflies love it.  It combines well with other border perennials and does not need staking.  90 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Phlox paniculata ‘Eden’s Crush’ (summer flame)*     3 litre - £5

This cottage garden perennial has masses of scented flowers from July to September in a particularly strong shade of cerise.  It combines well with other border perennials and does not need staking.  75 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Phlox paniculata ‘Franz Schubert’ (summer flame)*     3 litre - £5

All phlox have fragrant flowers, but this has particularly strongly scented blooms from July to September.  The delicate lilac flowers contrast effectively with the darker purple buds.  It combines well with other border perennials.  70 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Phlox paniculata ‘White Admiral’ (summer flame)*       3 litre - £5

This cottage garden perennial has scented pure white flowers from July to September.  It combines well with other border perennials and does not need staking.  75 x 60 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Phuopsis stylosa (Caucasian crosswort) *    1 litre - £2.50

This ground-hugging perennial is smothered in heads of unusual starry pink flowers from May to August.  With its trailing stems, it is ideal for growing on banks or spilling over walls and makes unusual ground cover in a sunny spot.  30 x 30 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Pilosella aurantiaca (devil’s paintbrush)*    2 litre - £3.50

Tight clusters of dark orange flowers are borne in July and August above a dense mat of green leaves.  It makes good ground cover in informal areas and looks stunning paired with lavender or nigella.  30 x 10 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Pimpinella major ‘Rosea’ (greater burnet)    3 litre - £5

Flat heads of frothy pale pink flowers are borne in May and June above fresh green ferny foliage that remain attractive throughout the season.  The flowers are excellent for cutting and the seed heads look good in autumn.  120 x 60 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Primula denticulata (drumstick primula) *        1 litre - £2.50

Drumstick primula take their name from their round heads of lilac flowers that are borne in March to May.  They are easy to grow in the border if given the right conditions.  60 x 40 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a moist soil that does not dry out in summer.

Primula denticulata ‘Rubin’ (drumstick primula) *     1 litre - £2.50

Drumstick primula take their name from their round heads of flowers that are borne in March to May.  ‘Rubin’ has bright cerise blooms.  They are easy to grow in the border if given the right conditions.  60 x 40 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a moist soil that does not dry out in summer.

Pulmonaria ‘Blue Ensign’ (lung wort)    1 litre - £3

Pulmonaria make excellent ground cover, as they are easy to grow and slug resistant.  They are also one of the earliest perennials in flower, this form with purple-blue flowers from March to May.  30 x 60 cm. Full or partial shade, any soil not too wet or dry.  The foliage may cause irritation, so wear gloves when handling.

Pulmonaria saccharata ‘Dora Bielefeld’ (lung wort)    2 litre - £4

Pulmonaria make excellent ground cover, as they are easy to grow and slug resistant.  They are also one of the earliest perennials in flower, this rose pink flowers from March to May.  30 x 60 cm.  Full or partial shade, any soil not too wet or dry.  The foliage may cause irritation, so wear gloves when handling.

Rudbeckia hirta (gloriosa daisies) *     2 litre - £3.50

Covered in large golden daisies (including many doubles) from July to October, rudbeckia make a useful splash of colour from mid-summer until late autumn.  Dead head regularly to prolong the flowering season.  Will often survive for one or two years if cut down once flowering has finished.  50 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil which is not too dry.

Rudbeckia fulgida sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ (black-eyed Susan)*         2 litre - £4

This easy-to-grow perennial is one of the best for late summer flowers with masses of golden daisies with prominent black centres borne in August-October.  These flowers are excellent for cutting.  It spreads slowly to form neat clumps.  60 x 45 cm.  Sun, a well-drained but moisture retentive soil.

Salvia microphylla (blackcurrant sage)*     2 litre - £4

As well as masses of small cerise flowers from June to October, this shrubby salvia has aromatic green leaves that smell of blackcurrant.  60 x 30 cm.  It is quite hardy as long as it is given sun, shelter and a well-drained soil.

Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’ (butterfly plant)*       2 litre - £4

Butterflies love the pink flowers that are borne in August to September above fleshy, succulent grey-green leaves. The dead flowers remain attractive through the winter.  It is very easy to grow and very drought tolerant.  50 x 50 cm.  Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Sedum ‘Matrona’ (ice plant) *    2 litre - £4

Sedums are attractive to butterflies and this is one of the most beautiful varieties with large heads of pale pink flowers from August onwards above fleshy purple-flushed leaves. The foliage looks good throughout the growing season making this an excellent border perennial.  50 x 50 cm.   Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

Sedum spectabile (ice plant) *      2 litre - £4

Butterflies love the sugar-candy pink flowers that are borne in August to September above fleshy, succulent grey-green leaves. The dead flowers remain attractive through the winter.  This is the best variety for attracting butterflies.  It is very easy to grow and very drought tolerant.  45 x 45 cm.  Sun or partial shade, well-drained soil.

Silene schafta (moss campion)*       1 litre - £2.50

Ideal for the rock garden, the front of the border or trailing over a wall, this neat little perennial forms a mat of green leaves that is topped by masses of magenta flowers in July to August.  15 x 15 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Silene uniflora ‘Druet’s Variegated’ (sea campion) *     1 litre - £2.50

This ground-hugging plant forms a mat of cream and green variegated leaves that is smothered in white flowers with distinct ‘bladders’ from May to July.  It is ideal for coastal gardens but can also be grown trailing over a low wall or at the edge of the border.  20 x 20 cm. Sun and a well-drained soil.

Sisyrinchium striatum  (satin flower)*     2 litre - £3.50

This easy-to-grow border perennial bears spikes of small cream flowers in May to June above iris-like foliage.  If deadheaded promptly, it will often bear a second flush in late summer.  It quickly forms a substantial clump and will also self-seed.  60 x 30 cm. Sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil.

x Solidaster luteus ‘Lemore’ (golden aster)*      2 litre - £4

This hybrid between golden rod and an aster has the best bits of both parents with sprays of delicate lemon flowers in August to September.  It has a neat habit, it easy to grow and is not invasive.  60 x 45 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Stachys byzantina (lamb’s tongue)*    2 litre - £4

Taking its common name from its soft, furry grey leaves, this evergreen perennial also bears furry soft pink flowers in June.  It is easy to grow if given the right conditions and is very drought tolerant.  Cut back the flowers once they are past their best to encourage a flush of new leaves.  15 x 50 cm.  Sun and any well-drained soil.

Telekia speciosa (large yellow ox-eye)     3 litre - £5

This bold perennial bears striking golden daisies in July and August above large heart-shaped leaves. Although a tall plant it has strong stems and does not need staking unless the position is very exposed. 150 x 120 cm.  Sun or partial shade, any soil which is not too dry in summer.

Tellima grandiflora  (fringe cups)*     1 litre - £2.50

This neat perennial makes excellent ground cover in shade with clumps of rounded green leaves that are topped by spikes of yellow-green flowers in May to June.  The leaves take on russet tones in autumn and winter.  It associates well with other perennials and is not invasive.  60 x 45 cm.  Full to partial shade and any well-drained soil.

Thalictrum aquilegiifolium (French meadow rue)     3 litre - £5

Clouds of fluffy pink flowers are borne in June to August above green leaves that resemble those of aquilegias.  This is an excellent back of border plant that makes a bold impression planted in drifts.  120 x 60 cm.  Does not need staking unless in an exposed position.  Sun and well-drained soil.

Thalictrum delavayi (Chinese meadow rue)*         3 litre - £5

Clouds of dainty cerise-purple flowers are borne in June to August above green leaves that resemble a maidenhair fern.  This is an excellent back of border plant that makes a bold impression.  200 x 60 cm.  Does not need staking unless in an exposed position.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Thalictrum delavayi ‘Album’ (Chinese meadow rue) *   3 litre - £5

Clouds of dainty white flowers are borne in June to August above green leaves that resemble a maidenhair fern.  This excellent back of border plant provides useful colour in late summer.  200 x 60 cm.  Does not need staking unless in an exposed position.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Thalictrum flavum glaucum (meadow rue)*       3 litre - £5

Clouds of fluffy lemon flowers are borne in June to August above blue-green fern-like leaves.  This is an excellent back of border plant that makes a bold impression planted in drifts.  120 x 60 cm.  Does not need staking unless in an exposed position.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Tiarella wherryi (foam flower)      2 litre - £4

This neat little perennial makes excellent ground cover for a shady spot with heart-shaped evergreen leaves and masses of spikes of frothy pale pink flowers in April to May.  30 x 60 cm.  Full or partial shade, prefers a moist soil but will tolerate dry shade under trees and shrubs.

Valeriana officinalis (valerian)    2 litre - £4

Once used as a sedative, heads of frothy pinky-white flowers are borne in July and August on tall stems above a crown of attractively divided leaves.  Needs staking in exposed positions.  120 x 100 cm.  Sun and a well-drained soil.

Verbena bonariensis (Argentinean vervain)*       2 litre - £4

An excellent see-through plant that associates well with other border perennials.  Pom-poms of purple flowers from July to September are excellent butterfly attractors.  Although the flowers are held on tall stems, it does not require staking.  It will self-seed but is not invasive.  150 x 50 cm.  Sun and shelter, well-drained soil.

Verbena corymbosa ‘Gravetye’ (blue vervain) *     2 litre - £4

Verbena bonariensis has been fashionable for several years and this smaller version with its lilac-blue flowers has all its good points but does not self-seed.  Dead head promptly after flowering for a second flush in late summer.  Butterflies love it. 90 x 90 cm.  Sun and shelter and a well-drained soil.

Verbena ‘Silver Anne’ (Simpler’s joy)      2 litre - £4