This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This compact and free flowering form is perfect for smaller gardens - or if you want to place it closer towards the front of the border. Like the species, its silvery stems are clothed in finely cut grey-green leaves, and topped with hundreds of purple-blue flowers from late summer. It's ideal for extending the season of interest in the border.
  
  
• Garden care: In March cut back to the permanent framework of the shrub. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.