A tuberous perennial, growing to about 30cm tall, with fairly broad, upright, green, stem-clasping leaves. The deep purple flowers, with white eye, appear in early to midsummer
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in humus-rich, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, preferably neutral soil. A cool, sheltered site in partial shade is ideal, but will tolerate sunnier spot if the soil is moist. In very cold areas apply a dry winter mulch such as bark. If growing from a tuber, plant 15cm deep
Propagate by division of tubers in spring when growth is starting
Remove faded flowers, let the rest of the plant will die down naturally
May be susceptible to slugs and vine weevil
May be susceptible to a virus