3 plants to create a layered look

Sanguisorba ‘Cangshan Cranberry’

The raspberry red catkin-like flowers of this burnet float on top of wiry stems from August to October, allowing tantalising glimpses of the plants behind. They are succeeded by seedheads that look good in winter. H: 61/2ft (2m).

Verbena hastata

The American blue vervain produces erect, airy candelabras of purple-blue flowers on slender stems in summer and autumn. The pink form is f. rosea. Grow in welldrained soil in full sun. H: 5ft (1½m).

Scabiosa atropurpurea ‘Black Cat’

Sow this fabulous hardy annual in the greenhouse now for rich burgundyblack pincushion flowers atop wiry stems next summer. Seedlings can then be planted out in sheltered sun in mid spring. H: 39in (1m).