Crocus Astrantia major 'Ruby…

This astrantia has stunning ruby-red pincushion flowers with a suggestion of white at the base of each petal. The leaves are pretty, too; deeply lobed and mid green. This old cottage garden favourite has been enjoying a resurgence of interest in recent years, as it works equally well in contemporary style plantings. Use towards the front of a sunny, yet moist border, where the intense flower colour can be fully appreciated.

Astrantias have been cultivated in Britain since the 16th century and have numerous common names, such as melancholy gentleman, Hattie's pincushion and the more well-known masterwort.