Erigeron

Erigeron Dunkelste Aller (Darkest of All)

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of Growth: average
• Flowering period: June-August
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  The name translates to 'darkest of all', and these daisies have deep violet flowers. Slender petals surround a prominent golden centre, and they can grow up to 5cm across. They look particularly good planted among other sun-loving summer flowers with a strong form, such as salvias and achilleas. Bees and butterflies love all erigerons, so they make a wonderful addition to a wildlife garden, and this one is also good for cutting.
  
  

• Garden care: These plants may need staking. Cut back the flowered stems to ground level in autumn. Lift and divide large clumps every second or third year and discard the woody crowns. Good drainage is vital, especially over winter, and look out for early signs of powdery mildew.