Fascinating with its unusual spires of tiny, pinkish-purple flowers, that are red at the top of the spike when in bud, Primula vialii (Orchid Primrose) is a striking perennial. Borne on stout stems above rosettes of spear-shaped, erect, light green leaves. Blooming in early to mid-summer, these rocket-shaped spikes are quite long-lasting and provide a spectacular effect when planted in groups. Grows up to 12-18 in. (30-45 cm). Native to moist mountain areas in China, this perennial thrives in damp, shady environments including bog gardens, near ponds, and streams. USDA Zones: 5-8.

Vigorous and charming, award-winner Campanula glomerata 'Superba' (Clustered Bellflower) is a rhizomatous perennial with upward facing, bell-shaped, rich violet-blue flowers held in dense clusters counting up to 15 flowers. Blooming mostly from late spring to early summer, the flowers are borne atop sturdy leafy stems above a spreading rosette of ovate to lance-shaped, toothed, green leaves. A dashing focal point in the garden, this Bellflower is perfect for a sunny or partly shaded herbaceous border. Great as groundcover too!

One of the most ornamental burnets, Sanguisorba obtusa (Japanese Burnet) is a clump-forming perennial with profuse and attractive fluffy, reddish-pink, bottlebrush flowers, elegantly swaying in the breeze in summer. They are borne on arching wiry stems above a particularly handsome foliage of blue-green, divided leaves. Reliable, easy to grow, it is very useful and adaptable in the garden.