Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' (Purple cow parsley): A dark leaved form of the common cow parsley. To 1.5m. Hardy. Tends to be biennial.

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 'Lily Lovell' (Dusky cranesbill 'Lily Lovell'): Large, rich purple flowers with white centre. Petals swept back. Hardy. Flowers early in the season. To 80cm.

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.