The bed in the patio is important because it is next to seating and so has to look good all year. While it is light, it is also partially shady, and snails are a problem. The Bergenia ‘Abendglut’ will turn dark burgundy in the winter and will look striking against Helleborus Niger. Then deep pink/purple bergenia flowers will follow. Ferns would soften the effect.

Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’ will come next, with variegated leaves and blue flowers, and even bigger variegated leaves when the flowers are over, and finally Anenome ‘Honorine Joubert’ will flower in late summer.

Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’

 Or perhaps I should aim to cover the entire bed with Bergenia ‘Abendglut’ and ‘Honorine Joubert’?