Clump-forming perennial features a mound of maple, or ivy-like, long-petioled leaves (3-5″ wide) which are an attractive deep purple above and beet red beneath. Foliage color may fade to a bronze green in hot summers. Tiny, pinkish white, bell-shaped flowers in open, airy panicles are borne on slender, wiry, dark red stems extending well above the mound of leaves typically to a height of 15-24″ in late spring to early summer. Attracts hummingbirds to the garden! They look especially good used around the edge of a border. -Santa Rosa Gardens

Noteworthy CharacteristicsFlowers are followed by rose-pink seed heads.

CareProvide full sun (especially in the north) or part shade and rich, humusy, moist but well-drained soil.

PropagationSow seed in containers in spring. Divide in autumn. Seed-raised plants may not retain the deep leaf color.

ProblemsFoliar nematodes, rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spots.