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, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to August
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A new cultivar with densely packed spikes bearing deep purple flowers, each with distinctive protruding cream anthers. Already winning awards in Holland, it shows some resistance to mildew and leaf spot. Useful for adding vertical interest to the border, it mixes well with softer lilacs as well as most shades of pink.
  
  
• Garden care: In more exposed positions, stake with brushwood or bamboo canes before the flowers appear. Apply a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.