This pond plant dies right back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Depth of water: 0-15cm
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August and September
• Hardiness: tender (needs winter protection)
  
  This is a statuesque perennial that grows at the margins of a pond, or boggy areas of the garden that never quite dry out. It forms a clump of upright stems, which are topped with tufted clusters, each with a small reddish brown flower at its tip. It's perfect for adding vertical interest, particularly in a large contemporary garden.
  
  
• Garden care: Wearing robust gardening gloves cut back and compost dead vegetative material in autumn and overwinter potted plants under glass - ideally sitting in a tray of water so they don't dry out.