Noted for its cold-hardiness, Agapanthus Headbourne Hybrids (African Lily) is a variable group of bulb-like perennials boasting rounded clusters, 3-4 in. wide (7-10 cm), of funnel-shaped flowers in shades of light and dark violet-blue. Each flower head is packed with 70 to 75 florets. They rise on stiff, upright stalks atop clumps of beautiful, deciduous, narrowly strap-shaped leaves. The foliage remains attractive when the plant is not in bloom.

Dierama pulcherrimum (Angel's Fishing Rod) is an elegant, evergreen perennial featuring long, gracefully arching stems adorned with nodding, bell-shaped, pale pink to magenta to white flowers from early to late summer. The blossoms open in sequence along the wiry stems as the season progresses. They overhang gorgeously above a clump of long, narrow, grass-like leaves that are evergreen in mild winter climates. Dierama pulcherrimum requires very little attention and makes a truly unique display in the summer garden. When a breeze passes through, nothing can beat the wafting this plant shows off. Particularly striking when sited above a low wall, against a background of dark green shrubs, or near a pond or pool where it can be reflected for double the pleasure.

Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) is a bushy, woody-based deciduous perennial with long terminal panicles of small, lavender-blue flowers, borne on thin white stems, clad with finely-dissected, aromatic gray-green leaves. Blooming for weeks from mid-summer to fall, this delicate-looking plant is a toughy that is resistant to drought, heat, pests, and poor soils. Pretty and excellent for xeriscaping, its long blooming season, makes it an extremely valuable addition to the garden - even in winter when the stems create a beautiful feature in the landscape.