This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no 3 compost for containers)
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: half hardy (will need protection in winter)
  
  Larger than average trumpet-shaped flowers form in impressive clusters, each of which can last for up to 12 weeks from midsummer. Their distinctive purple-blue and white colouring makes them particularly eye-catching - and they will also last well after being cut for the vase. A sun-loving perennial, it will flourish in pots that can be moved to a sheltered spot in winter.
  
  
• Garden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser each month from spring until the plant flowers. Towards the end of September ease back on the watering and feeding of plants in containers to allow the foliage to toughen up. Overwinter container-grown specimens in a cool greenhouse or conservatory, watering sparingly.