We have a small bed on the side of the patio and the planting needs to be ‘interesting’. Bergenia ‘Abendglut’ leaves are burnt Sienna in winter, followed by deep purple flowers in March and April, and then the leaves turn green in the summer. Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ flowers in May & June; Liriope Muscari’s lavender flowers appear in August to September, and Anenome ‘Honorine Joubert’ is gracefully white from August to October. Perhaps I should consider Libertia Grandiflora in this bed? White flowers in April and May and interesting, spikey green foliage all year. What do you think? Will this be ‘soft’ enough? Will it be snail-resistant?

Allium ‘Purple Sensation’

Liriope Muscari (www.crocus.co.uk)