A clump-forming, herbaceous perennial, to around 70cm high, with an upright habit and lobed green leaves lightly marked with bronze. Tall, branching stems bear masses of small, very dark reddish purple flowers in late spring and early summer
0.5-1 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Thrives in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade, but will tolerate most soils and positions unless waterlogged
Propagate by seed, by division or by basal softwood cuttings in spring. Plants may self-seed but seedlings may not be true to the parent
Cut old, browned foliage back to the ground before spring
May be susceptible to vine weevil larvae, geranium sawfly larvae, capsid bug, slugs and snails
May be susceptible to downy mildews and virus diseases, and to powdery mildews in dry conditions