‘These three will shine brightly in any border’
Astrantia ‘Sparkling Stars White’
The shimmering white flowers of this herbaceous perennial are produced in profusion on strong stems over a long season. Good for cutting. Adaptable and useful perennial for any moist, welldrained soil in sun or semi-shade. H/S: 70cm (2¼ft). Price: £6. From: www. letham-plants.co.uk; tel: 01620 822350.
Echinacea ‘Sundress’
Selected for both hardiness and durability, this white-flowered variety of coneflower E. purpurea will flower in mid-summer the year after sowing. Ideal for border or containers in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. H: 30-60cm (1-2ft), S: 50-70cm (1¾ft-2¼ft. Price: £2/30 seeds.
From: www.owlsacreseeds.co.uk.
Verbascum ‘Snowy Spires’
Gorgeous cottage garden perennial with ice-white blooms accentuated by a magenta-coloured, fuzzy centre. Lush, green foliage gives this accent plant a stately air. Bees and other pollinators also love it. Any moist, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade. Price: £3.50/50 pelleted seeds. From: www.dobies.co.uk.