A clump-forming perennial to 90cm tall, with lance-shaped, aromatic, mid-green foliage. In summer each upright stem carries a whorl of two-lipped, tubular, raspberry red flowers with decorative, dark red bracts
0.5-1 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from excessive winter wet and do not allow to dry out in summer. Lift and divide every three years
Propagate by division in early spring, before new growth begins, or by basal softwood cuttings
Deadheading regularly should encourage more flowers. Cut stems down to the ground in autumn, or leave seed heads for winter structure
May be susceptible to slugs, especially in spring
May susceptible to powdery mildews, especially in hot, dry summers, though this variety is said to be more mildew-resistant