Verbena bonariensis Purple Top, vervain

■ A striking, evergreen perennial, not entirely hardy in our climate however, therefore cover in winter.
■ The plant's sparse growth habit and massive dark purple blooms make it ideally suited for use in bouquets and as a background plant.
■ The flowers sit as flat heads on strongly branching stems and spread a distinctive phlox scent.
■ The flower stalks themselves are leafless.