The Snake’s Head Fritillary is a uniquely charming native plant traditionally found in grassy, damp meadows.

I can’t grow it in my free draining soil at home but, on my allotment, it is gradually colonising a grassy spot next to my tiny pond.

It has narrow, greyish leaves and nodding, chequered bell-flowers on slender stems about 30cm high. The most common colour is a dull pinky purple, but there is also a white form. Commonly planted as bulbs in the autumn, many garden centres now supply them as potted plants at this time of year. Don’t miss your chance to buy what I think is a ‘one off’ type of flower.