Grown for its fluffy, bottlebrush-like flower spikes in brilliant white, Liatris spicata 'Alba' (known as the white gayfeather) is a compact perennial of great ornamental value. The white spikes, held on tall, stiff stems, open from the top down. And they keep coming, in succession, over a long period in late summer and early autumn. Being white, of course, they stand out particularly well against the finely textured, deep green strap-like foliage that clusters around the bases. As if this is not enough, the flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects.

Liatris spicata 'Alba' is an exquisite very hardy perennial that adds interest and texture to your summer garden displays – in the border or in a patio container. Oh, and did we say, the flowers are good for cutting for the vase, too!