Crepis incana

'The Pink Dandelion' is the usual description but the dandelion bit puts some people off. Yes, it grows from a stout clump of leaves much like a grey-leaved dandelion but this is a smart, classy plant that won't seed everywhere (it doesn't set seed at all in our climate - we raise it from cuttings).

The pink flowers are carried on stiff, many-branched stems from mid-summer. A taller alpine, maybe 30cm (12") high when flowering so will need a bit of room, although it doesn't spread widely, keeping itself to a slowly expanding clump.

Crepis is easily grown - well-drained, sandy or stony soil suit it best, but it's adaptable and it likes sunshine. Very drought resistant once established so ideal for gravel gardens etc. It's a gorgeous plant.