Hyacinthoides hispanica or the 'Spanish Bluebell' as it is commonly known is the ultimate in low-maintenance perennial gardening. It pops up its fresh green head, rewards neglect with a fountain of blue, violet, pink or white flowers and then enters its enchanted sleep – until next year, when it repeats the whole performance yet again. As you’d expect, all the colours are a perfect match, making it well worth mass-planting them for a symphony of soft colours in spring.

Alternatively, try interspersing Hyacinthoides hispanica (Spanish Bluebells) with contrasting yellow flowers for a tapestry of vibrant colour. Wonderful in woodland gardens or informal cottage gardens, they’re just as effective when surrounded by other blooms in a mixed border.

* To avoid cross-hybridisation with native English bluebells in the UK, this variety is best grown in enclosed gardens or areas away from British woodland and countryside where it may be become invasive.