THIS pretty, dainty perennial – which is often found in seaside gardens – brightens up any border or rockery at this time of year thanks to its pink, red or white flowerheads topping grass-like, densely-packed leaves.

Growing only to around 20cm in height it looks great at the front of dry and sunny borders, is drought tolerant, long-flowering and makes an ideal edging plant.

On a sunny rockery, armeria goes perfectly with dwarf phloxes.