This is what we call an ‘architectural’ plant; even just in leaf it has significant visual impact and structure in the garden. In full stride, the leaves are large and spiny-edged, and in June tall spires of unusual looking flowers arise.

The bottom lip of the flower is a creamy white, with the upper lip a dusky mauve. These stay for a long time, and if not deadheaded will self-seed into an delightful patch of this wonderful plant for years to come.