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

• Position: light dappled shade
• Soil: best growth results are achieved in moist, fertile soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This is a striking, compact cultivar, which will work equally well in a border or a pot. Each vibrant, light to mid-green leaf is held on a near-black stem and this dark colouring usually infuses the base of the leaf too. The foliage forms a neat mound, which in late summer is crowned with sprays of lavender coloured flowers.
  
  
• Garden care: Surround plants with a ring of crushed eggshells to offer protection from slug damage.