Crambe maritima

On top of being a robust and lovely plant for the garden, sea kale (Crambe maritima) is edible, too. Glaucous mounds of this herbaceous perennial can often be spotted growing on shingle beaches.

In early summer clusters of white honey-scented flowers appear that attract a range of pollinating insects. The very young leaves and stems can be eaten raw or steamed, but the best flavour is thought to come from plants that have been forced, as you would with rhubarb. Find out how to grow sea kale for more advice. It's also a great addition to gravel and coastal gardens, where it'll combine beautifully with plants like sea thrift and kniphofia.

For best results, grow Crambe maritima in full sun or partial shade in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Cut back in autumn.