Centranthus rubra aka Red valerian.

ye I agree. Cant get it to 'take' in my garden. seeds freely next door but not for me.

Also known as Orpine or Livelong. I can't grow it either.

Not Orpine - that's a different plant, now known as Hylotelephium telephium, formerly Sedum telephium. It does have similar heads of pinkish-red flowers though.

I've always known that plant as Orpine but have no idea who told me it's name. The new name is a bit of a mouthful, Landgirl. Why do they keep changing plant names? I've just noticed in the Gardeners' World magazine that Dicentra is now called Lamprocapnos. Dicentra is not only easier to say but a nicer name.

ah but its not all decentres either. its to do which genetic identification that shows a truer relationship between plants.

Thanks for the info All x