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: light, moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A delightful, colourful plant with spikes of indigo-blue flowers in early to midsummer. This reliable perennial is ideal for the middle of a moist, well-drained herbaceous border. It flourishes in sun or dappled shade where the bright flowers help to liven up any plant scheme.
  
  
• Garden care: To prolong flowering remove the flower spikes as soon as they start to fade. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.