Cardamine quinquefolia: Light purple flowers emerge very early in spring, with attractive deeply divided leaves. Foliage dies down in summer.

Geranium phaeum (Dusky cranesbill): Purple flowers with swept-back petals held high above soft green foliage. Early to flower, reliable and easy. To 60cm. Hardy.

Geranium phaeum 'Raven' (Dusky cranesbill 'Raven'): Dark purple flowers with long stamens and swept-back petals held high above soft green foliage. Great for shady areas. To 60cm. Hardy.

Geranium phaeum pale purple (Dusky cranesbill pale purple): Pale purple flowers with swept-back petals held high above soft green foliage. Early to flower, reliable and easy.

Lathyrus vernus (Spring pea): Two-tone purple and pink pea-like flowers in early spring. Thrives in shade, even quite dry shade. To 30cm. Hardy.