RHS A robust and compact, bushy, half-hardy perennial. Has small lance-shaped, toothed dark green green leaves and terminal racemes of scented two-lipped tubular purple and lilac flowers with a bright yellow protuberance in the centre from late spring to early autumn.
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Will grow well in moist but well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic soil in full sun. Partial afternoon shade will make flowers last longer. If growing in containers add one application of slow release fertilizer to encourage steadier performance. Overwinter in a greenhouse or in a frost free environment
Propagate by seed and softwood cuttings in spring or late summer
Pinch out growing tips to produce a bushier plant. Cut back in summer for a second flush of flowering, alternatively trim off spent flowers to promote continuous flowering
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to aphids
Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to root and foot rot in very wet conditions