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: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast
• Flowering period: May to October
• Hardiness: frost hardy (will need protection in winter)
  
  Small but striking, rich purple flowers are held on long, purple-tinged stems for a long period throughout summer and autumn on this sprawling, semi-evergreen cranesbill. It makes an ideal, low maintenance groundcover for sun or shade, where it will self-seed freely if left unattended. Particularly effective when planted in wild gardens, where it can be left to colonise and spread.
  
  
• Garden care: Some protection from severe frosts may be necessary during winter using a framework of canes surrounded with fleece and stuffed with straw or bracken. Container grown plants should be placed in a cool, sheltered site such as a cold greenhouse or cold frame.