Centranthus ruber

This cottage garden classic is an easy going, long flowering perennial that bees adore.Centranthus ruber brings vivid-headed blooms in crimson, pink or white that rise on long stems above lance-shaped foliage from late spring through to early autumn. Exceptionally hardy and drought-tolerant once settled, this Mediterranean native thrives in full sun, poor or lime-rich soils, and even roots itself in wall cracks or on gravel banks. Its perfect for cottage borders, coastal gardens, rockeries, courtyard containers or softening stone walls - drawing bees and butterflies with its lightly fragrant, long-lasting flower clusters. Once introduced, it will gently sprinkle seed about, colonising awkward, stony gaps that are impossible to plant. Ultimate height: 60cm (24in). Ultimate spread: 45cm (18in).