8 KEY PLANTS

1 Veronicastrum virginicum f. roseum

The soaring pink spikes of this late-summer-flowering perennial are the perfect foil to fluffy textured grasses, such as pennisetum, or as here with Panicum virgatum ‘Hänse Herms’. 1.4m. RHS H7, USDA 4a-8b†.

2 Helenium ‘Rubinzwerg’

Its rich vermilion flowers are bold, and strong seedheads follow providing the perfect counter balance to the softer gauze-like planting, such as Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Rosea’ 1.2m. AGM*. RHS H7, USDA 3a-8b.

3 Perovskia atriplicifolia

A classic OvS plant, a useful vertical accent and filler for large areas. It sparkles when planted alongside yellow, daisy-flowered plants such as Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’, pink echinaceas and violet Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’. 75cm. RHS H5, USDA 5a-9b.

4 Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’

Perhaps the species most closely associated with the OvS look, showy yet almost indestructible and great for pollinators. 1m. RHS H5, USDA 3a-8b.

5 Acanthus hungaricus

The bracts of this acanthus species are somewhat more elegant than others. Has an upright, regal presence and strong architectural form useful for anchoring corners of plantings. 1.2m. RHS H6, USDA 5a-10b.

6 Allium ‘Summer Drummer’

The flowerheads of this tall allium can grow to around 20cm in diameter, making it durable as a foil to most other perennials and grasses. 1.8m. RHS H5.

7 Rudbeckia maxima

A tall rudbeckia with a slightly more naturalistic appearance. It looks best when it is generously deployed. 2.1m. RHS H6, USDA 4a-9b.

8 Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea ‘Dauerstrahl’

An upright grass with gently curving purple seedheads and stems that turn a soft golden, butter-colour in autumn. 1.2m. USDA 5a-9b.