Strobilanthes Atropurpurea is a hardy perennial which produces masses of rich violet-purple, tubular, bell-shaped flowers on upright, branching stems, creating a striking display when many summer-flowering plants are beginning to fade. Its soft green, textured foliage provides a lovely contrast to the flowers, giving the plant a natural, relaxed appearance.
Flowering from midsummer into autumn, Strobilanthes atropurpurea is particularly useful for adding height and colour to mixed perennial borders and informal cottage gardens. Once established, it forms a substantial clump and returns year after year, making it a rewarding choice for gardeners looking for reliable late-season interest. Its flowers are also attractive to pollinating insects.
When to Sow: Feb–Apr
HOW TO SOW:
Sow onto preferably soil-based compost, covering with fine grit to approximately their own depth. Keep moist and maintain a temperature of 15–20°C to encourage germination. Be patient, as germination can be slow and irregular. Many seeds may not germinate in their first year and require a period of natural winter chilling before emerging the following spring. Keep seed trays in a sheltered outdoor position if germination does not occur initially, allowing the seeds to experience seasonal temperature changes.
Germination Time: Variable; some seeds may germinate within several weeks, while others may not emerge until the following spring. This is an important distinction: winter chilling may be necessary, rather than simply keeping the seeds warm and expecting germination within a few weeks.
Classification: Hardy herbaceous perennial
Expert Level: Requires Experience
Germination Time: Variable;
Flowering Time: Jul–Oct
Site: Full sun or partial shade
Soil Type: Fertile, light, well-drained soil
Soil Acidity: Acid, neutral or alkaline
Moisture: Moist but well-drained
Care: Mulch in colder areas over winter and remove dead growth in spring
Use: Cottage gardens, perennial borders, late-season colour and pollinator-friendly planting
Days to Maturity:1–2 years
Height: 50–90 cm
Plant Spacing: 40–50 cm