This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, neutral to alkaline soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This attractive perennial is often found in hedges or woodland edges. Its bristly, nettle-like leaves form a basal clump, from which stout upright stems appear from midsummer to early autumn, bearing gorgeous lavender blue bells. In the garden, it looks wonderful when incorporated into naturalised planting schemes.
  
  
• Growing instructions: Surface sow from January to May indoors onto moist well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seeds with soil, light is required for germination. Propagate at 18-20°C, germination occurs around 14-28 days. Once germinated, ventilate to prevent damping off. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 9cm pots, grow on in cooler conditions. Plant out once the risk of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Seeds can also be sown outdoors directly from May to June.
  
  
• Sow: January to May
  
  
• Flowering period: June to September