Chamaenerion angustifolium Album (3 × 9cm pots)

Decorative, architectural and fast-growing. Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: moderately fertile, reliably moist but free-draining soil Rate of growth: fast Flowering period: July to September Hardiness: fully hardy Add graceful height and texture to your garden with Chamaenerion angustifolium 'Album’, producing tall, slender spires of pure white flowers from midsummer to early autumn which stand out beautifully against its long, willow-like green leaves. This fast-growing rhizomatous perennial creates expansive, architectural displays from midsummer to early autumn, with pure white flowers gradually transitioning to silky, plume-like seed heads that maintain visual interest for weeks. It's very impressive when in full bloom - particularly when used to illuminate an area of partial shade. Perfectly suited to moisture-retentive soils and sunny positions, this sophisticated white-flowered willowherb spreads with controlled grace, offering gardeners a sophisticated alternative to its more rampant wild cousins while providing essential late-season nectar and structural beauty. Garden care: Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and moisture-retentive, slightly acidic to neutral soil with good drainage, spacing plants approximately 60-90cm (2-3ft) apart to allow for their spreading rhizomatous nature. Water consistently during establishment, particularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. These robust perennials appreciate a layer of organic mulch around their base to retain moisture and suppress weedy competition. While generally disease-resistant, monitor for potential issues like powdery mildew in humid conditions. When deadheading, cut spent flower spikes back to the first set of healthy leaves to promote continuous blooming and prevent excessive self-seeding. During autumn maintenance, cut stems to ground level after the first hard frost, leaving a small stubble to highlight the crown. Every 3-4 years, divide mature clumps in early spring or autumn to reinvigorate the plant, ensuring each division contains healthy roots and shoots, which will help maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.