6 unusual bulbs for borders

Eremurus robustus AGM

The tall spires of foxtail lily or giant desert candle will light the back of a sunny, well-drained border in June. Make a mound inside the planting home and cover the crown with 5in (13cm) of soil. HxS: 61/2x21/2ft (2mx75cm).

Scilla ‘Pink Giant’

An easy-going squill whose starry, pale pink flowers open in February and March. Plant bulbs 3in (8cm) deep and 2in (5cm) apart, in sun. They will return in successive years, bulking up well. H&S: 6in (15cm).

Triteleia laxa ‘Koningin Fabiola’

Known as Ithuriel’s spear or grass nut, this Californian native has loose umbels of purple-blue flowers in June. Plant corms to thread through a border and they will come back every year – in ever greater numbers! HxS: 2ftx2in (60x5cm).

Tulipa orphanidea Whittallii Group AGM

A handsome, sun-loving species tulip that opens bronzed orange blooms with darker centres. It loves the well-drained soil of a dry garden, rockery or pot of gritty compost. Plant bulbs 4in (10m) deep. HxS: 1ftx4in (30x10cm).

Iris tuberosa

Previously known as Hermodactylus, the fragrant snake’s head iris or Hermes finger is native to dry, rocky countries around Turkey. Plants love sun and good, welldrained, alkaline soil. Plant tubers 4in (10cm) deep. HxS: 1ftx2in (30x5cm).

Ipheion ‘Rolf Fiedler’ AGM

South American spring starflowers spread well (but not invasively) and will often creep into any well-draining cracks between paving stones. ‘Rolf Fiedler’s clear blue flowers open in May. Plant bulbs 2in (5cm) deep. H&S: 4in (10cm).