they claim it is hardy but the one i had didnt come through its first winter and it was a mild winter at the time. I am in the east of yorkshire, so perhaps only hardy in the 'softer south'.

dont give up just yet though :o)

I've tried this plant two or three times but never got it thorough a winter. I'm in Berkshire (the 'softer south')

thanks guys, I have bought seeds just in case it doesn't come back it is well worth the effort I do like the colour, I have a similar problem with trying to keep verbena boriensis think I have managed that this winter but not sure yet that it has survived, it looks like it is coming through but still no sign of my beaujolais. Will set my seeds and keep my fingers crossed for a better outcome next year. Will cover it up now I know it is not that hardy. Thank you again for your replies.

I'm so disappointed with this plant. I first planted a few plants two years ago and really enjoyed their lovely summer display. Last spring I looked forward to seeing them again but they didn't appear and I put it down to the very cold winter. I bought some replacements last spring and put those in. Sadly they have not survived again and it really wasn't a bad winter here in Shropshire. I was starting to think it was my soil so am heartened to hear that I'm not alone. What a shame though as they really are attractive plants.
Can anyone suggest a similar alternative that will survive a UK winter please?