This spectacular shrub, with its orchid-like flowers is rare, simply because people are wary of growing it because of its reputation for keeling over at the first sign of frost. In fact, its as tough as old boots. We planted one about five years ago in our “Shady border” and it has grown into a large and handsome plant, 7ft across and five ft high. It sailed through the harsh winters of the last two years, without any protection. It comes into flower in June and carries on flowering right through September. Its English name is Busy Lizzie, but it is nothing like its annoying little cousin of the same name.
Tags: Gardening