Plant 5-8cm apart and 3-4cm deep in well-prepared, gritty soil. We recommend adding plenty of sharp sand or fine gravel to heavy soils to ensure excellent drainage – this is absolutely critical for success. In containers, use a 50:50 mix of good quality compost and horticultural grit. These plants despise waterlogged conditions, particularly in winter. Create raised planting areas or mounded beds if your soil tends to hold water. A neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0) suits them best, so avoid lime-rich soils or add ericaceous compost if needed. In autumn, allow the foliage to die back naturally – this feeds the underground rhizomes for next year’s display. Apply a light mulch of grit around the plants to protect from excessive winter wet. Remove any dead foliage in early spring before new growth appears.

Divide established clumps every 3-4 years in early spring, carefully separating the small rhizomes. Each division should have growing points attached. This is also the best time to refresh the soil with fresh gritty compost.