9 tender perennials
Alonsoa meridionalis ‘Rebel’
Known as mask flower, South American Alonsoa is a sub-shrub with presence and will star in its own pot, a mixed planter or in well-drained soil. Scarlet flowers open from dark stems. H: 2ft (60cm) S: 16in (40cm).
Heliotropium ‘Midnight Sky’
Heads of small, rich-purple flowers emit a delicious perfume reminiscent of cherries and vanilla. Small, shrubby plants are worth overwintering from year to year as rooted cuttings or plants to prune in spring. H and S: 12in (30cm).
Calibrachoa ‘Superbells Evening Star’
Similar to petunias but with smaller flowers, calibrachoas are plants of slightly trailing, spreading habit that suit all containers and are smothered in heattolerant, plum-purple and creamy-yellow blooms. H: 10in (25cm) S: 12in (30cm).
Coreopsis ‘Mango Punch’
This tickseed is actually an herbaceous perennial and will sometimes withstand mild winters on well-drained soil. Masses of mango daisies are produced from summer to autumn against fine, ferny foliage. H: 18in (45cm) S: 12in (30cm).
Nemesia ‘Pink Lemonade’
From the stunning Fairy Kisses series of nemesias, this one makes a froth of pale pink and cream, lit by yellow. Plant in a windowbox to enjoy the sweet, honey scent. H: 12in (30cm) S: 10in (25cm).
Sanvitalia ‘Golden Aztec’
The well-named creeping zinnia with its origins in Mexico makes a sturdy trailing and spreading plant decorated by perky yellow flowers. The long-lasting display is ideal for tubs and baskets. H: 12in (30cm) S: 24in (60cm).
Felicia ‘Forever Blue’
Kingfisher daisies are well-named, as their ray petals are a rich, true blue. Of South African origin, the plants have an almost succulent nature and love full sun and well-drained soil. H: 16in (40cm) S: 2ft (60cm).
Pelargonium ‘Attar of Roses’ RHS
Lobed leaves with rose-geranium scent are joined by clusters of mauve-pink flowers. Pinch the tips from young plants for a good, rounded shape. Loves the sun and well worth keeping for another year. H and S: 18in (45cm).
Verbena ‘Showboat Midnight’
This robust broad-leaved verbena has a slightly trailing, mounding habit and good mildew tolerance. The purple blooms are dark but not too brooding and look great combined with paler flowers and light foliage. H and S: 14in (35cm).