This impressive perennial makes a great show in the back of the border. Its shrubby-like appearance provides substance to a summer border. Foliage emerges purple and ages dark green to bronze. New stems are also purple. White flower clusters appear mid to late summer, and are very showy against the dark foliage. Grows 4 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide. Attracts butterflies.
This is not a low-water plant, and requires regular watering. It thrives in heavy clay soils, and moist sites, in sun to light shade. Though herbaceous, it has a nice winter presence and lasts well into the winter, even when dormant. Cut it back hard in late winter.