Trachelium caeruleum Family: Campanulaceae Common Name(s): blue lace flower Grown by: Barbara and John Hopper, Kenwood The common name of this plant is blue lace flower for the attractive dark violet flat-topped umbels that adorn this perennial from the western Mediterranean. It is easy to grow in any sunny location and survives with low water. The flowers are lightly scented and are visited by both bees and butterflies. It can be cut to the ground in late winter when new growth is visible at the base. It is hardy to 25 degrees or so. Photo by Steve Morse