Hesperis White (Sweet Rocket)

A plant that works the night shift. White Sweet Rocket produces tall, branching spikes of pure white, four-petalled flowers that are beautiful and airy during the day — brightening shady corners and filling the hungry gap between the last tulips and the first peonies.

But as dusk falls, it releases a powerful, heady fragrance reminiscent of violets and cloves. The white flowers seem to glow in the twilight, attracting moths and guiding you down the garden path. One of the most atmospheric plants you can grow.

• Hesperis matronalis — Hardy Biennial (H5)
• Height: 60–90cm | Flowers: May–July (Year 2)
• Sow outdoors May–July; flowers the following summer
• Partial shade to full sun; well-drained soil
• Self-seeds freely once established
• Outstanding moth plant — vital for night pollinators

Plant it near a garden seat or along a path you walk in the evening. The fragrance will find you before you find it.