I'm looking to fill some space in my garden where I've planted smaller shrubs, but I want to ensure I don't block the climbing plants behind them. Ideally, I'm after a perennial that reaches a height of at least 60cm, isn't too dense, and attracts bees and butterflies. The area gets full sun. I've been considering verbena, but I already have a decent-sized patch of it. What other options do you recommend?
3 Answers
For a great option, consider planting alliums that flower in summer. They provide height without much foliage, so they won’t overshadow your climbers. I've got sphaerocephalon, atropurpureum, and ping pong varieties lined up for this autumn!
Thalictrum is fantastic! I have both purple and white varieties, and they're really popular with bees and pollinators. They can reach about 90cm and have a lovely airy feel to them, unlike denser flowers. Check it out!
Sanguisorba is another solid choice! It has attractive foliage, and the flowers last a long time, plus they dry nicely if you're into that kind of thing.

Absolutely! Sanguisorba is one of my favorites too!